Adam Kyte, of Charles Russell Speechlys, says that restoring an EU-UK youth Mobility Scheme has only positives. He says it’s time to ignore the right-wing media’s political backlash and do what is best for businesses and young people.
EU/UK Youth Mobility Scheme offers a way to help address the labour shortage and “reset” post-Brexit relationships. The Labour government is reluctant to adopt the scheme despite its potential. This is due to fears about political backlash.
“Confusing the youth mobility scheme and a reversal Brexit is a misrepresentation a pragmatic visa agreement offering mutual benefits.”
Brussels first proposed the scheme in April 2024 (and it was rejected). It offers 18-30-year-olds an opportunity to study or work abroad for a maximum of four years. This time limit and eligibility criteria ensure that it’s not a backdoor for free movement as some fear. Rumours about a new proposal have recently surfaced, offering hope for reviving the UK workforce in sectors like hospitality where vacancies are on the rise post-Brexit.
These schemes are practical, as shown by the UK’s existing successful youth mobility agreements with 12 countries. This includes European microstates, Iceland and European microstates. Last year, 22750 young people came to the UK to work and live. The visa was valid for two years (and could be extended to three years in some cases). Participants pay taxes, visas fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge, but are not eligible for public funding.
Critics compare the proposed EU/UK scheme with relinquishing immigration control. The Telegraph described the scheme recently as a European ploy for offloading unemployment. This ignores the fact that the scheme is time-limited, reciprocal, and would benefit British youth who are looking for international experience.
It is not surprising that the government has taken a cautious approach, given their “red line” in regards to free movement and the political minefield.
The youth mobility scheme is not the same as a Brexit reversal. It is a visa agreement that offers mutual benefits and differs from the previous free movement.
The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement is due for review in 2026. This gives the government a chance to change the narrative and show the value of the scheme without compromising their stance on immigration. Maybe they could negotiate to reduce the duration of the program to two years, in line with similar programs. This delicate balance could have significant cultural and economic dividends for the UK as well as the EU.
The scheme offers young people from both sides of Channel a chance at regaining some of the lost opportunities due to Brexit. It’s also a solution for businesses who are in need of urgent labour. The government must navigate the increasing hostility towards immigration without sacrificing these benefits.
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