UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa: Explore the UK
The UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa is part of the UK-India Mobility Partnership, allowing young professionals from India to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years. This visa is granted through a ballot system, meaning applicants must first be selected before applying.
What is the UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?
The UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa allows Indian nationals aged 18-30 to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 2 years. Unlike most work visas, this route does not require a job offer or employer sponsorship.
This visa provides:
- Work rights – You can take up most jobs, including self-employment.
- Study options – You can enrol in courses in the UK.
- No sponsorship needed – You do not need an employer or educational institution to apply.
However, the visa is granted through a ballot system, meaning only those selected in the ballot can apply.
Who Can Apply for a UK India Young Professionals Visa?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be an Indian national aged 18-30.
- Have a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification.
- Have at least £2,530 in savings to support yourself.
- Not have dependants applying with you.
- Have no significant UK immigration history (e.g., overstaying a visa).
How Does the Ballot System Work for the UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?
This visa is not available for direct application—you must first enter a ballot and be selected before applying.
Ballot Process:
- The UK government holds ballots twice a year (usually February and July).
- You must submit an expression of interest online during the ballot period.
- If you are randomly selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
- If not selected, you must wait for the next ballot.
The ballot is free to enter, and successful applicants must apply within 30 days of selection.
What You Can and Cannot Do on a UK India Young Professionals Visa
- Work in most jobs in the UK.
- Be self-employed, provided you do not have premises or employees.
- Study at UK institutions (some courses may require a Student Visa instead).
- Travel in and out of the UK during your visa period.
You cannot:
- Extend the visa beyond 2 years.
- Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under this visa.
- Bring dependants (spouse or children) with you.
- Claim public funds or benefits.
Required Documents for a UK India Young Professionals Visa
To apply for an India Young Professionals visa for the UK, you will need:
- A valid Indian passport.
- Ballot selection confirmation email.
- Proof of a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification.
- Bank statements showing at least £2,530 in savings for 28 days.
- Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, if required.
All documents must be in English or Welsh, or you must provide a certified translation.
How to Apply for a UK India Young Professionals Visa
Step 1: Enter the Ballot
- Apply online during the ballot window (announced twice a year).
- If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply.
Step 2: Submit Your Visa Application
- Apply through the official UK government website.
- Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Upload your documents and financial proof.
Step 3: Verify Your Identity
- Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step 4: Await a Decision
- Processing time: 3 weeks.
- If approved, you will receive a digital status or a visa vignette in your passport.
Once granted, you can move to the UK immediately and start working or studying.
UK India Young Professionals Visa Scheme Fees and Costs
Visa Application Fee:
- £298
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- £1,035 per year (Total: £2,070 for 2 years)
Total Expected Cost:
- £2,368 (visa fee + IHS)
- + £2,530 in required personal savings
What Happens After the Visa Expires?
The UK India Young Professionals Visa cannot be extended. Before your visa expires, you must:
- Leave the UK, OR
- Switch to another visa if eligible.
Visa Options After the UK India Young Professionals Visa
| Visa Type | Description | Leads to ILR? |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa | Employer-sponsored visa for long-term work. | ✅ Yes (after 5 years) |
| Innovator Founder Visa | Start an innovative business in the UK. | ✅ Yes (after 3 years) |
| Self-Sponsorship Visa | Start and sponsor your own UK business. | ✅ Yes (after 5 years) |
How Immtell Can Help
The UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa is a great opportunity, but what happens next? Immtell provides expert support to help:
- Secure long-term work visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa.
- Guide you through self-sponsorship if you want to start a business.
- Ensure compliance with Home Office requirements for future visa applications.
Make the Most of Your UK Opportunity
Plan your next steps in the UK before your visa expires. Whether you’re looking for long-term work or starting a business, we can help.
Plan your next steps in the UK before your visa expires. Whether you’re looking for long-term work or starting a business, we can help.
Further Reading
Guide to Successfully Obtaining a UK Work Visa in 2025
How to Obtain a Work Visa for the UK in 2025
How to Make the Most of a Youth Mobility Visa in the UK
Mastering the Youth Mobility Visa UK
What is the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Your Guide to the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK: Meeting Eligibility and Navigating Compliance
The UK Immigration Process: A Guide for Newcomers
Your Essential Guide to Navigating the UK Immigration Process with Confidence