What does the proposed youth mobility scheme mean for British youth?

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With new talks being held between the UK and the EU, it looks like a new youth mobility scheme is set to happen.

This will be considered a huge step in rebuilding ties with the EU since the UK left it with Brexit in 2020.

It’s being classed as a “balanced youth experience.”

This mobility scheme would allow for young people, in the UK and EU, to work and move freely between European countries for a period of time. It’s thought that the scheme will cover those between the ages of 18-30, however there are talks of extending this all the way up to 35, allowing for more young people to be involved.

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Young people would be able to work and live abroad for two years. Though it should be noted the government may limit this to just one year.

Schemes, similar to the one proposed, already exist between the UK and non-EU countries such as New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada, and Australia. This current scheme allows people to work and live in Britain for two years, however they need over £2,500 in savings, showing that they can support themselves.

While this new scheme hasn’t been decided yet, it is expected that numbers will be limited to a certain amount.

Sir Keir Starmer has stated that “a strengthened partnership” would “be good for our jobs, good for our bills and good for our borders.”

James MacCleary, Liberal Democrats European spokesperson, stated: “This news is a glimmer of hope for young people who have been so badly let down by Brexit. The government now needs to follow through.”

This scheme will give young people brighter futures and broader horizons as it gives them more choices such as where to work, study, travel, volunteer, and au-pair.