The UK Young Professional Scheme provides young Indian professionals with the chance to live and work in the United Kingdom for a maximum of two years. This program enables individuals to gain international experience, explore career opportunities, and immerse themselves in a new cultural environment.

Applications for this visa are only accepted through a ballot system, which is held twice a year. The scheme has strict eligibility criteria, and only those selected on the ballot can apply for the visa. Below is a complete guide on how to apply, eligibility requirements, costs, and key rules associated with this program.

Overview of the UK Young Professional Scheme

The UK Young Professional Scheme is a visa pathway under the UK’s immigration policies, designed for Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 who wish to gain international exposure. This initiative is similar to the Youth Mobility Scheme, allowing young professionals from specific countries to work and travel in the UK.

This visa permits Indian nationals to experience the UK job market and gain valuable work experience without requiring employer sponsorship. It is a flexible program that provides multiple career opportunities for those looking to enhance their professional growth.

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Benefits of the Young Professional Scheme

Holders of this visa can:

  1. Gain the opportunity to work in the UK without requiring employer sponsorship.
  2. Travel across the UK and explore different regions.
  3. Start a business (with restrictions on premises, equipment, and employees).
  4. Apply for other visa routes, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, if eligible.

However, certain restrictions apply. For example, visa holders cannot work as professional sportspersons or coaches. Additionally, this visa does not count toward permanent residency in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme

To be eligible for this scheme, applicants must fulfill the following requirements:

  1. Be an Indian citizen.
  2. Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of applying.
  3. Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification.
  4. Have at least £2,530 in personal savings.
  5. Provide a valid tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, if applicable.
  6. Have a clear criminal record.
  7. Not have previously participated in the India Young Professional Scheme or Youth Mobility Scheme.
  8. Not have dependent children living with them or financially relying on them.

Financial stability is crucial, as applicants need to prove they can support themselves without public funds. The funds should be available for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The application process consists of two main stages:

1. Entering the Ballot
  1. Indian nationals must first enter the ballot system, which opens twice a year (usually in February and July).
  2. To participate, applicants must provide passport details, full name, date of birth, contact information, and a scanned copy of their passport.
  3. Ballot selection is random, and only those selected will receive an invitation to apply.

2. Visa Application Submission
  1. Once selected, candidates must submit their visa application within 90 days.
  2. The online application form requires personal details and supporting documents, including:
    1. Valid passport
    2. Proof of funds (£2,530 or more)
    3. Tuberculosis test certificate (if required)
    4. Degree qualification certificate
    5. Police clearance certificate

  3. Applicants must also pay the visa and health surcharge fees.
  4. A biometric appointment at a visa application center may be required.

Financial Requirements and Visa Fees

Applicants must meet specific financial conditions and pay associated fees:

Fee Type Cost (£)
Ballot Entry Free
Visa Application Fee £298
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) £1,552 (for 2 years)

In addition to these fees, applicants must have at least £2,530 in savings, which should be held for 28 consecutive days before applying.

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Processing Time and Next Steps

  1. The UK Home Office typically processes applications within three weeks of submission.
  2. If approved, visa holders must travel to the UK within six months of receiving their visa.
  3. Upon arrival, they can begin working and living in the UK under the conditions set by the scheme.

Rules on Visa Extensions and Settlement

Can This Visa Be Extended?

No, this visa cannot be extended beyond two years. However, before the visa expires, individuals may apply for other visa routes, such as:

  1. Skilled Worker Visa (if they meet the job and salary criteria).
  2. Global Talent Visa (for exceptional professionals).
  3. Student Visa (if they choose to pursue higher education).

Does This Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?

No, time spent under the Young Professional Scheme does not count toward Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, if a visa holder switches to another immigration category, their new visa may lead to settlement.

Bringing Dependents to the UK

This visa does not allow applicants to bring dependents. If an individual has children under 18 who live with them or rely on them financially, they are not eligible to apply.

Frеquеntly Askеd Quеstions (FAQs)


It is a visa program that allows eligible Indian nationals aged 18-30 to work, travel, and live in the UK for up to two years.

How Can I Apply for This Visa?

Applicants must first enter a ballot. If selected, they can submit a visa application within 90 days of receiving an invitation.

What Are the Financial Requirements?

Applicants must prove they have at least £2,530 in savings, which must be held for 28 consecutive days before applying.

Can I Extend My Stay in the UK on This Visa?

No, the visa cannot be extended beyond two years. However, individuals may switch to another visa route if they qualify.

Does This Visa Lead to UK Permanent Residency?

No, this visa excludes Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, switching to a work visa could open a pathway to settlement.

Can I Bring My Family on This Visa?

No, dependents are not allowed under this scheme.

The UK Young Professional Scheme is a unique opportunity for young professionals from India to gain international exposure and work experience. However, given the limited slots and strict requirements, it is important to follow the application process to secure a place carefully.