The India Young Professional Scheme aims at allowing increased mobility for a limited number of young people between India and the UK. Both countries have signed a deal allowing 3000 nationals per year aged between 18 – 30 entry to the UK under a new visa route – applicants do not need a sponsor or a job to be eligible.
The Young Professionals Scheme is part of the UK-India Mobility and Migration Partnership, signed in May 2021, which includes commitments to enhance migration between India and the UK. The programme will be reciprocal, also allowing UK professionals in the same position to participate in a professional exchange by living and working in India.
Ballot System and Requirements
The first 2,400 India Young Professionals Scheme visas will be available under a ballot system. With the ballot opening 2:30pm IST 28 Feb 2023 for 48 hours 2:30pm IST 02 March 2023. An individual can enter the ballot if they:
- Are an Indian Citizen between the age of 18 and 30, or 18 on the date you plan to travel
- Hold a qualification at bachelor’s degree level or above
- Have £2,530 in savings to support themselves whilst in the UK
- Have no children living with them or who are financially dependent on them
The ballot is entered online where an individual must provide their: name, date of birth, passport details, mobile number, and email. The successful entries will be picked at random with results being sent out within 2 weeks of the ballot closing. Those successful will have 30 days to submit their application. Whilst entering the ballot is free, those successful and wishing to apply for the visa will incur the visa fee of £259 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £954. Those that are successful are able to take up work and/or study, subject to a few conditions.
Following the ballot at the end of February there is rumours of the next ballot being at some point in June 2023, however nothing has been confirmed at this date.
The India Young Professionals Scheme visa is not a route that leads to indefinite leave to remain and cannot be extended beyond the 2 years from the initial grant. Individuals are able to switch to another visa such as the skilled worker route without leaving the UK provided they meet the necessary requirements. This visa could also serve as a means for young entrepreneurs to establish businesses in the UK which they can then develop to the point of being eligible for an endorsement, as required by the Innovator and Start-Up visa requirements.
Contact our Immigration team
For more information, contact Mariam Khaliq Partner and Head of the Immigration team. Please email immigration@bishopandsewell.co.uk or contact us on 020 7631 4141 and ask to speak to a member of the Immigration team
The above is accurate as at 02 March 2023. The information above may be subject to change during these ever-changing times. The content of this note should not be considered legal advice and each matter should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
