Step into a realm of opportunity with the India Young Professionals Scheme visa, a pivotal initiative arising from the dynamic UK-India partnership unveiled in May 2021. This groundbreaking program opens avenues for young Indian professionals, aged between 18 and 30, to embark on a transformative journey in the United Kingdom.

Designed to foster cultural exchange and professional growth, this visa offers an unparalleled chance to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months. Let us now give you a brief overview of what this topic entails

What is the 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.

1. Age Criteria

• Indian national or citizen aged between 18 and 30 years.
• The minimum age requirement is 18 years on the planned date of travel to the UK.

2. Educational Qualification

• Possess a qualification at a bachelor’s degree level or higher (Regulated Qualifications Framework level 6, 7, or 8).
• Qualifications must either be from a UK institution or an equivalent overseas qualification at degree level or above.

3. Financial Proof

• Maintain £2,530 in savings to demonstrate the ability to support oneself in the UK.
• The funds must be available for at least 28 days, with day 28 falling within 31 days of visa application.

4. Family Responsibility

• You should not have children under 18 living with you or for whom you are financially responsible.

*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: India-UK Young Professional Scheme

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.

How & When to Apply for an India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?

First thing First, Before you apply for this visa, it is important to enter the ballot to apply for this visa. You are not charged to enter the ballot, however, if your entry is chosen, you will be responsible for the cost of the visa.

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.

When to Apply for an 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.

How to Apply for an 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.

Application Fee for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

After confirming your identity and submitting the required documents, the next step involves covering the visa expenses. Below are the detailed costs associated with the visa.

• Pay the application fee of £298 / INR 31,583
• Pay a healthcare surcharge of £940 / INR 99,627
• Prove you have £2,530 in personal savings / INR 2,68,145

Apply for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa with GetGIS

As we wrap up this detailed guide on the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa, it's evident that opportunities await those who aspire to broaden their horizons. GetGIS Immigration consultant stands as a valuable resource, ensuring you navigate this transformative journey seamlessly.

Empower your ambitions, embark on a path of growth, and make the most of the unique experiences that the India Young Professionals Scheme has to offer. The doors to your future endeavors are wide open, and with GetGIS, you're equipped to step confidently into this exciting chapter of your professional life. Schedule a Free Consultation

Useful Links

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• UK Visa Interview Questions and Answers: Detailed Insights