India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
The India Young Professionals Scheme visa is an exciting opportunity for young Indian citizens who want to live and work in the United Kingdom. It allows eligible Indian graduates to stay in the UK for up to two years.
This visa is part of the UK-India Migration and Mobility Partnership, which aims to strengthen ties between the two countries.
Let's explore everything you need to know about the India Young Professionals Scheme visa, including eligibility, application process, and important dates for 2025.
What Is this India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?
The India Young Professionals Scheme visa allows Indian nationals aged 18-30 years old to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months.
It is similar to the Youth Mobility Scheme, which includes citizens from other countries. However, this one is exclusively designed for Indian citizens under a bilateral agreement between India and the UK.
Each year, 3,000 Indian nationals are selected to receive this visa through a ballot system.
Who Can Apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be an Indian citizen.
- Be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Have a graduate-level qualification (bachelor’s degree or above).
- Have £2,530 in your bank account to support yourself.
- Do not have any children under 18 who live with you or are financially dependent on you.
- You must not have previously entered the UK on the Youth Mobility or Young Professionals visa.
Only those who are selected in the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot can apply.
India Young Professionals Scheme 2025 Ballot Dates
The ballot usually opens twice a year, once in February and again in July.
For 2025, the first ballot is expected in early February, followed by a second round in July if all 3,000 places are not filled.
You must enter the ballot online. It’s free to join, but once selected, you must pay the healthcare surcharge and the visa application fee.
Tip: Keep checking the UK government website or KCR Consultants for the latest updates on ballot dates.
How to Enter the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa Ballot
To enter the lottery, you will need to send an email with your:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- A copy of your passport photo page
- Phone number
- Email address
You can only enter once per ballot. Multiple entries will not increase your chances. Read. They may lead to disqualification.Once the ballot closes, successful candidates are selected randomly and informed via email.
What Happens If You're Selected in the Ballot?
If you are considered qualified and accepted, the visa office will send an invitation to you by email to apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa.
You must submit your application within thirty (30) days of receiving the email invitation.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Apply online using the UK visa website.
- Pay the visa application fee of £298.
- Pay the Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £776 for 2 years.
- Book and attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre in India.
Visa Fees and Financial Requirements
To apply, you must be able to show that you can support yourself financially during your stay.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost:
- Visa application fee: £298
- Healthcare surcharge: £776 (for 2 years)
- Funds in bank account: £2,530 (held for at least 28 days)
The funds should be in your bank account, and the balance should not fall below the required amount during the 28 days.
Documents Required for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
When applying, you will need the following:
- Valid Indian passport
- Proof of education – a degree certificate or academic transcript
- Bank statement showing the required funds
- TB- Tuberculosis test results (from an approved clinic)
- Biometric information (fingerprints and a photo)
- Invitation email from the ballot
Make sure all documents are in English or are officially translated.
Processing Time
After applying online, providing the required documents, and attending the biometric appointment, you can expect to receive a decision within 3 weeks.
UKVI will contact you if more information is needed.
After You Get the Visa
Once approved, you must travel to the UK within 6 months of getting your visa.
The visa will allow you to:
- Live and work in the UK for 2 years
- Enter and leave the UK at any time
- Study during your stay
However, you cannot:
- Extend your stay beyond 2 years
- Bring dependents (spouse/children)
- Work as a professional sportsperson or coach
What Jobs Can You Do in the UK?
There is no restriction on the type of work you can do under this visa. You can:
- Work full-time or part-time
- Be self-employed or freelance
- Switch between jobs
- Take internships or placements
Many young professionals use this visa to gain UK work experience, improve their English skills, or even explore new career paths.
Can You Study on the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?
Yes, you can enrol in short-term or part-time courses while you are in the UK.However, if your main intention is to study full-time, you must apply for a Student visa instead.
Reasons for Visa Refusal
Your visa could be refused if:
- You don’t meet the age or education criteria
- You don’t show enough financial proof
- You fail to provide documents
- You give false information
- You miss the application deadline after being selected in the ballot
Make sure you meet all requirements before applying.
When to Start Preparing for 2025 Applications
If you’re planning to apply in 2025, it’s wise to start preparing now.
Here are some steps to follow:
- Get your passport ready.
- Arrange your degree certificate or academic proof.
- Save the required funds in your bank account.
- Take your TB test from an approved clinic.
- Stay alert for the ballot announcement in February or July.
Why Choose the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?
This visa offers a unique cultural and professional opportunity for Indian graduates.
You can:
- Build international work experience
- Learn about the UK work culture
- Travel around Europe while staying in the UK
- Boost your career profile
- Improve your communication and networking skills
It’s an excellent chance to explore global opportunities without the long-term commitment of a permanent visa.
Quick Facts – India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
FeatureDetails
Visa Type: Temporary (2 years)
Eligibility: Indian citizens aged 18-30
Education: Bachelor’s degree or above
Annual Quota: 3,000 places
Ballot Rounds February and July
Application Fee £298
Health Surcharge £776
Financial Requirement: £2,530 in savings
Work Rights Allowed
Study Rights Allowed (limited)
Dependents not allowed
Conclusion: A Golden Chance to Work and Live in the UK
The India Young Professionals Scheme visa is more than just a permit to live in the UK. It’s a pathway to growth, exposure, and global experience for young Indian graduates. Thousands of Indian youth aspire to gain international work exposure, and this scheme offers just that – legally and affordably.
