Want to work in UK? India Young Professionals Scheme ballot to reopen on July 22; check eligibility, process

The next ballot under the UK’s India Young Professionals Scheme visa will open for two days on July 22, the British government has announced.

The upcoming ballot will open at 1:30 pm IST on July 22 and close at 1:30 pm IST on July 24.

What is the India Young Professionals Scheme?

The India Young Professionals Scheme allows Indian nationals aged between 18 and 30 to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months.

Who is eligible to apply?

To be eligible for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa, applicants must be Indian nationals aged between 18 and 30 years, hold a qualification at bachelor’s degree level or above, and have at least £2,530 in savings to support themselves in the UK.

They must not have any children under the age of 18 who live with them or whom they are financially responsible for.

Candidates cannot apply if they have already been in the UK under this scheme or the Youth Mobility Scheme visa.

How to enter the ballot?

Applicants will need to provide their name, date of birth, passport details and a scan or photo of their passport, along with a phone number and email address when entering the ballot. Only one entry per person is allowed.

How are successful entries chosen?

Successful entries in the ballot will be picked at random and results will be emailed within two weeks of the ballot closing. The ballot is free to enter, but those selected will need to pay a visa application fee of £319 along with the immigration health surcharge.

How many visas are available?

A total of 3,000 places are available for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa in 2025. Most were allocated in the February ballot, and the remaining slots will be offered in this second and final ballot in July.

What documents are required for the visa application?

If successful in the ballot, individuals will have 90 days to apply online for the visa, pay the required fees, and provide biometric information. They will also need to submit documents such as proof of funds, evidence of qualifications, tuberculosis test results if living in India, and a police clearance certificate.

What can you do under this visa?

Under the scheme, visa holders can live and work in the UK for up to 24 months. They can study, work in most jobs, and be self-employed under certain conditions. However, they cannot extend their stay, access most public funds, or include family members in their application. They also cannot work as a professional sportsperson or coach.

What if you are unsuccessful in the ballot?

The ballot results are final and cannot be appealed. However, candidates may enter future ballots as long as they continue to meet eligibility criteria.