The UK construction sector continues to grow, supported by increased investment in infrastructure and housing developments.
With demand on the rise, the need for skilled labour is becoming more apparent.
The CSN Industry Outlook 2024-2028 estimates that 251,500 additional construction workers will be needed in the UK by 2028 to meet demand.
While vacancies have increased in the industry to keep up with growth, labour shortages continue to be one of the sector’s most significant challenges.
The industry relies on a diverse workforce across multiple trades, many of whom are international workers requiring visas to work in the UK.
The end of free movement for European Union (EU) nationals and the introduction of the point-based system in 2021 have made it more difficult for construction businesses to hire skilled workers from overseas.
Many businesses now face challenges in meeting strict visa criteria and covering substantial visa costs.
The anticipated UK-EU youth mobility scheme, also known as the ‘youth experience’ scheme, may help ease these hiring concerns for construction companies.
Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, which can cost more than £10,000 per applicant, the youth mobility visa costs around £2,300
What is the youth mobility scheme?
Youth mobility schemes offer opportunities for young adults to live and work abroad while encouraging cultural exchange.
Over the past year, the UK government has been in talks with the EU about a reciprocal youth mobility programme.
A UK-EU youth mobility scheme could resemble existing agreements with countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada, which were introduced in 2008.
Although full details have yet to be announced, the scheme is expected to be time-limited and subject to an annual cap.
It would allow EU nationals aged between 18 and 30 years old to live and work in the UK for 12 months, with the possibility of extending for another one to two years.
The UK may also impose a quota for the number of EU nationals that could apply under the scheme each year.
Recent media reports suggest the cap could be 70,000 people per year to support the UK government’s goal of reducing net migration.
The UK-EU proposal is expected to be discussed at the upcoming UK-EU summit in London on 19 May 2025.
What are the benefits of the scheme?
Although not a construction-specific visa, the scheme could still help address labour shortages in the industry.
For companies facing challenges in sponsoring skilled migrants, such as high salary thresholds or visa costs, the scheme could provide a more accessible immigration route.
This, however, would not be a concern for companies with employees under the UK-EU youth experience scheme. Based on similar schemes, eligibility would likely be based on age and the ability to support oneself financially while in the UK.
The scheme would also provide a more affordable hiring option for construction businesses.
Unlike the Skilled Worker visa, which can cost more than £10,000 per applicant, the youth mobility visa currently costs around £2,300.
This cost difference could make it easier, and more financially viable for construction businesses to access European workers.
Youth mobility schemes also foster international connections, which can lead to long-term benefits for the sector
Future considerations
The UK-EU youth mobility scheme could benefit the UK construction sector by helping to address labour shortages, lower recruitment costs and support long-term growth.
Although visa holders would be in the UK for a limited time, the scheme could complement other immigration routes.
Currently, youth mobility visa holders can apply for other visa types from within the UK.
This flexibility would allow businesses to sponsor them under the Skilled Worker route if they meet the eligibility requirements, allowing them to stay longer or settle permanently.
Youth mobility schemes also foster international connections, which can lead to long-term benefits for the sector.
The scheme would allow talented and skilled young EU nationals to live and work in the UK, bringing valuable skills and experience with them.
New ideas and cross-cultural perspectives would be injected into British companies, adding value and sparking innovation across the construction sector.
Kirsty Moore is a manager and Ilaria Iovieno an associate at Fragomen.
