Entry to the United Kingdom under the points-based system Youth Mobility Scheme is based on a quota system for participating countries, rotating annually. Currently the countries participating in the scheme are Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand.
The department today announce that they had now reached the issuing level for Japanese nationals for the period ending 31 December 2010 and with immediate effect the British High Commission outposts will no longer be accepting new applications for this year. Japanese applicants may next apply from 1 January 2011.
This is amazing news considering that the quota for the initial year was hit by Japan and suspended late in 2009 and the new quota had been open only for a matter of weeks.
Nationals of Australia, Canada and New Zealand may continue to apply throughout 2010 unless the British High Commissions announce otherwise. Although ceasing the program for these countries is unlikely to happen in 2010 this is a clear demonstration as to how the UK Points Based System can be manipulated quickly by the UK Border Agency and swift action can be taken if they feel a program is not in the best interests of the British people.
Last updated: Thursday February 18, 2010 7:44AM
Author: Michael Foster
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