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UK and EU Edge Closer to Youth Mobility Visa Deal Ahead of May Summit

Talks progress on a capped, time-limited scheme for 18- to 30-year-olds as Labour signals openness to compromise on key EU demand.

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer addresses the crew of the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince Of Wales in front of an F35 fighter aircraft in the hangar of the carrier, which is on an eight month operational deployment. RICHARD POHLE/Pool via REUTERS

Overview

  • The UK government is negotiating a youth mobility visa scheme with the EU, allowing young people aged 18 to 30 to live and work reciprocally for a limited time.
  • Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, previously opposed to the scheme, is now open to a capped, 'one in, one out' model to address concerns about net migration figures.
  • The EU views the mobility scheme as a critical element for deeper post-Brexit trade and economic cooperation, with a final package expected at the May 19 UK-EU summit.
  • Labour MPs and Lords have urged the government to finalize a time-limited, capped scheme, emphasizing its potential to boost cultural and economic ties.
  • German ambassador Miguel Berger expressed optimism about the progress, signaling that both sides are working toward a mutually acceptable agreement.