UK to Offer 3,000 Free Visas for Indians to Live, Work & Study for 2 Years!

Get ready to pack your bags! The highly anticipated UK-India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) ballot for 2025 opens next week, offering young adults a golden opportunity to experience life in a new country. This reciprocal scheme allows eligible individuals to live, travel, study, and work in the UK or India for up to two years.  

What is the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme?

Launched in February 2023, the Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) is a reciprocal visa programme to strengthen cultural and professional ties between India and the UK. The initiative allows Indian and British nationals aged 18 to 30 to experience life in another country while gaining international exposure.

Key Details for Indian Applicants

For Indian nationals aged 18 to 30, the gateway to this incredible opportunity is the Young Professionals Scheme ballot. Here’s what you need to know:

• Ballot Dates: The ballot opens on February 18th and closes on February 20th, 2025.  
• Application Process: Enter the ballot online at gov.uk. It’s free to enter!  
• Number of Spots: 3,000 spots are available for Indian nationals.  
• Selection Process: Successful applicants will be chosen at random.  

Eligibility Requirements for Indian Applicants

Before entering the ballot, ensure you meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old on the date you plan to travel to the UK.  
• Educational Qualification: You must qualify for a UK bachelor’s degree level or above.  
• Financial Proof: You need to show proof of £2,530 in savings to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
• Not have previously been granted a visa under this scheme.

How the Ballot Process Works

• The ballot is free to enter and operates on a random selection basis.
• Only 3,000 spots are available for Indian nationals.
• Successful applicants will be notified via email within two weeks of the ballot closing.
• Those selected must submit a visa application to the UK Home Office within 90 days of receiving the notification.
• Required steps include completing an online application, submitting biometric data, and paying the visa application fee along with the Immigration Health Surcharge.

How to Apply?

The ballot will be available on the official GOV.UK website. Applicants should ensure they meet all requirements before applying. The High Commission of India in London provides additional guidance for British nationals interested in applying for the scheme.

Application Process for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme

1. Enter the Ballot

• Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
• Submit your entry for the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot on the official GOV.UK website during the specified dates.

2. Receive Selection Notification: If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply via email within two weeks of the ballot closing.

3. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the following documents for your visa application:

• Valid passport or government-issued identity document.
• Bank statements showing at least £2,530 in savings.
• Proof of educational qualifications (minimum UK bachelor’s degree equivalent).
• Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required).
• Police clearance certificate from Indian authorities.

4. Submit Your Visa Application

• Complete the online visa application promptly upon receiving the invitation.
• Provide your biometrics and pay the necessary fees, including the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

Important Rules to Note

• Selected applicants must return to India after completing their two-year stay in the UK.
• Over 2,100 visas were issued to Indian nationals under the YPS in 2023.
• Applicants should be aware of fraudulent agents promising visas in exchange for money. It is advised to refer only to official UK government sources for guidance.

A Word from the British High Commissioner

Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, expressed her enthusiasm for the scheme, stating:

“The Young Professionals Scheme is an excellent program which helps build a modern understanding of our countries among Brits and Indians alike. I strongly encourage people from all corners of the country to apply – from Itanagar to Coimbatore, from Leh to Surat, and from Bhubaneshwar to Indore.”

Information for British Citizens Travelling to India

Official guidance for British citizens looking to travel to India under the scheme can be found on the website of the High Commission of India in London.

Don’t Miss Out!

This is a fantastic opportunity for young professionals to gain invaluable international experience. Mark your calendars for the ballot opening on February 18th and get ready to apply!