India Young Professionals Scheme UK Visa Apply Now

The United Kingdom has officially reopened the India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) visa ballot, offering young Indian professionals a unique opportunity to live, work, and study in the UK for up to two years. The free online ballot, which opened at 1:30 PM IST on July 22, will remain accessible until 1:30 PM IST on July 24.

The YPS is part of a bilateral agreement between India and the UK under the Migration and Mobility Partnership, aimed at enhancing youth mobility and cultural exchange. A total of 3,000 visas are allocated annually for Indian citizens under this scheme. Most slots were filled during the February round; the current ballot will cover the remaining places for 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Be Indian citizens aged 18–30
• Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
• Have at least £2,530 in savings for the past 28 days
• Have no dependent children
• Not have previously held a Youth Mobility or YPS visa

Ballot Entry Details

Applicants can enter the ballot through the UK government’s official website. The process is free of charge, and each individual may submit only one entry. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Selected individuals will be notified by email within two weeks after the ballot closes.

Post-Ballot Process

Those selected will be invited to apply for the visa within 90 days. The full visa process includes:

• Payment of a £319 visa fee
• An Immigration Health Surcharge of approximately £1,552
• Submission of biometric data and supporting documents

Successful applicants must travel to the UK within six months of receiving their visa. The visa allows holders to work in most professions, study, and even be self-employed under certain conditions. However, it does not permit access to public funds or bring dependents.

Key Takeaway

The Young Professionals Scheme offers an excellent platform for qualified Indian youth to gain global exposure, boost their career prospects, and experience life in the UK. With no job offer required, the scheme is expected to receive thousands of entries.

Interested candidates are advised to check their eligibility and submit their ballot entry before the deadline on July 24, 2025, at 1:30 PM IST.