India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2026: Requirements, Process & Fees

UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2026 offers a unique 2-year pathway for Indian citizens aged between 18 to 30 years to study, live, and work in the United Kingdom. The Scheme was launched as part of the UK-India mobility partnership, under which 3,000 visa spots were allocated in 2025. 

Most of the allocations were carried out in the February ballot, and the final allocations were processed in the July 22-24 draw. In this article, we will delve into the details of the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa ballot eligibility, how and when to apply, costs, etc, information on this exciting opportunity.

What is the UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?

India Young Professionals Scheme visa category enables individuals from India, aged between 18-30, to reside and work in the UK for a maximum of 2 years, with no constraints on the nature of employment, excluding professional sports roles.

This visa bears similarities to the Youth Mobility Scheme visa accessible to citizens from countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and others. It grants the flexibility to pursue studies, engage in self-employment, or establish a company in the UK, subject to specific eligibility criteria.

Before applying for this visa, it is imperative to be chosen through the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot. To participate in the ballot, you are required to confirm your eligibility for the visa.

Eligibility for India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

To participate in the program, it is important to meet the eligibility criteria. The ballot for the program opens twice a year, in January and July. If you are interested in applying for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa, you must understand the eligibility requirements before you begin the application process.

*Prior application and selection in the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot are mandatory before applying for the visa.

* If you were in the UK under this scheme before, you will not be eligible

Also Read: UK Shortage Occupation List 2025

Documents Required for India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

Below are the essential documents needed for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa. This comprehensive list guides you through the necessary paperwork for a successful visa application.

• Valid passport or another document verifying identity and nationality.
• Bank statements or relevant documents confirm a minimum of £2,530 in your bank account.
• Proof of qualifications at bachelor’s degree level or above (Regulated Qualifications Framework level 6, 7, or 8).
• Written confirmation from your college or university stating the completion of studies and attainment of the required qualification.
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results if residing in India or another listed country.
• Police report or clearance certificate from India.
• Ensure there is a blank page in your passport for the visa.
• Certified translation for documents that are not in English or Welsh.
• Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances; the Home Office will notify you if further evidence is needed.

Also Read: How To Get a Police Clearance Certificate From a Local Police Station in 2025?

Step-by-Step Application Process to the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

Before we navigate the process to apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa, here is a detailed step-by-step breakdown to the application process that would further familiarise you with what to expect through the process:

Step 1: Check with your eligibility to apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa ballot

Step 2: If selected in the ballot, you would receive an invitation to apply for the visa

Step 3: Prepare all the necessary documents for the application 

Step 4: Apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

Step 5: Wait for the processing of your application. You will receive an email that will further brief you on the next steps that need to be completed.

India Young Professionals Scheme Visa Ballot system

First thing First, Before you apply for this visa, it is important to enter the ballot to apply for this visa. Below are the guidelines for entering the ballot

1. Ballot Entry Guidelines

• To participate, ensure you're an eligible Indian citizen for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa.
• Provide essential details: name, date of birth, passport information, a scan/photo of your passport, phone number, and email address.
• Successful entries, randomly selected, will be notified by email within 2 weeks of the ballot closure.
• Entry is free, but only enter if you plan to apply for the £259 visa and meet all financial, educational, and other requirements.
• In 2023, 3,000 spots were available; most were allocated in February, and the rest in July.
• Only one entry per person per ballot

2. For Successful Entries

If selected, apply for the visa within 30 days of the email, including the application fee and immigration health surcharge. Choosing not to apply after a successful ballot doesn't require notification.

3. For Unsuccessful Entries

Results are final; no appeals are entertained for unsuccessful entries. You can try again in future ballots.

How to Apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?

You need to follow these instructions to apply for the visa once you receive the invitation to apply. Below we have included the screenshot and an explanation of Steps to Secure Your India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

Step 1: Select where you are planning to live

Step 2: Enter Yes or No based on whether you own an EU, EEA, or Swiss passport.

Step 3: Select the country India where you will provide your biometrics. You can choose a biometric location that is close to you.

Step 4: Once you choose the location, click on Apply Now

Step 5: Once you click on Apply Now, the page will direct you to create an account. Enter your login and credentials and follow all 6 steps that are highlighted in the below screenshot.

Step 6: The final step would be to enter your UAN number received in your mail based on the expression of interest to the India Young Professionals scheme ballot.

When to Apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?

Upon successful selection in the ballot, you are required to submit your visa application within the timeframe specified in your invitation—commonly set at 30 days from receipt. Subsequently, your travel to the UK must occur within 6 months of the visa application date.

For instance, if your application is submitted on 16 March 2023, your arrival in the UK should be no later than 15 September 2023.

Also Read: UKVI IELTS 2025-26

India Young Professionals Scheme Visa Fees

Upon confirming your identity and successfully submitting the required documents, the next step is to cover the visa expenses. The detailed costs associated with this visa application include:

What You Can and Cannot Do on a UK-India Young Professionals Visa?

When travelling to the United Kingdom on a UK India Young Professionals Scheme Visa, you would need to abide by the following dos and don’ts:

How GetGIS Supports Your Efforts to Ensure a Seamless and Successful UK Visa Application?

The India Young Professionals Scheme Visa serves as an excellent pathway for young Indians to gain global exposure, enhance career prospects, and experience life in the UK. However, with the limited slot availability and highly competitive ballot system, careful planning is crucial for improving your chances.

To maximise your success and smoothly navigate the UK Indian Young Professionals Scheme visa, you can reach out to GetGIS for expert assistance. Our team enriches your application process, providing end-to-end support in safely securing your UK visa.

Book Your Free Consultation

Also Read:

• Mastering the UK Visa Interview Questions and Answers
• UK Visa Processing Time
• UK Student Visa Requirements in 2025-26
• UK Work Visa for Indians
• Top Highest-Paying Jobs in the UK