Will You Be Lucky 1 in 3,000? India Young Professionals Scheme Visa Explained

The India Young Professionals Scheme visa (also known as the Youth Mobility Scheme for Indian nationals) is a special UK visa route that allows young Indian citizens aged 18–30 to live, work, travel and study in the United Kingdom for up to 2 years.

Unlike many UK work visas that require a job offer or sponsorship, this scheme is a ballot-based opportunity — meaning your entry depends on a random selection draw.

One of the biggest things students and young professionals talk about is the ballot system — a lottery-style entry where applications are free and random.

• You must submit your details to enter the ballot.
• If selected, you’ll receive an email invite to apply for the visa.
• You then have 90 days to complete your application online.
• If successful, you get a visa valid for up to 24 months.

Only 3,000 places are available, making the odds competitive — and making that “1 in 3,000” chance a real part of the process.

To be eligible, you must meet all the following conditions:

• Be an Indian national aged between 18 and 30 years.
• Have a degree at bachelor’s level or higher (or equivalent).
• Have at least £2,530 in savings (to support yourself in the UK).
• Not have children under 18 for whom you’re financially responsible.
• Apply to and be selected in the ballot before submitting your visa application.

Tip: Check your qualification level carefully — if in doubt, compare your degree to UK standards before entering the ballot.

If your name is picked in the ballot, you will be invited by email to:

1. Apply online for the visa.
2. Prove your identity (biometrics).
3. Submit documents like passport, qualifications, bank statements, TB test results, and police clearance certificates.

Once approved, you’ll usually get a decision within about 3 weeks, and then you must travel to the UK within 6 months.

Since the visa allows you to live and work in the UK, it also allows you to study while you’re there — though some courses may need special clearance (e.g., an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate).

This can be especially attractive for Indian students who:

• Want practical work experience after their degree
• Are exploring short postgraduate diplomas or certification courses
• Wish to engage with industry before committing to a long-term education route

It’s not a replacement for a full study visa, but it can be a way to combine real UK work exposure and short-term study options — a pathway your UK journey might begin with before pursuing a full academic programme.

Applying through this scheme isn’t free, even though entering the ballot is:

• Ballot entry: Free
• Visa application fee: £319 (non-refundable)
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,552 (mandatory)
• Savings requirement: £2,530 proof in your bank account

You must maintain the savings amount for at least 28 days and the final day must be within 31 days of the visa application.

While this is not a long-term settlement route, the scheme still offers valuable opportunities:

1. Work in most jobs
2. Be self-employed (with specific limits)
3. Travel freely in and out of the UK
4. Study part-time or short courses

This makes it a strong option for Indian graduates to gain international experience, strengthen their CVs, and expand personal and professional networks.

• Extend the visa beyond 24 months
• Bring family members as dependants
• Access most public funds (benefits)
• Work as a professional athlete or in highly regulated sectors without clearance

Even if you don’t get selected in the ballot, the UK remains one of the top study abroad destinations globally due to its academic prestige, diverse opportunities, and rich cultural experience. Choosing the right long-term study route through proper channels — with support from experienced UK Education Consultants — can be a safer, more predictable path toward your goals.

1. What is the India Young Professionals Scheme visa?

It’s a special UK visa for Indian citizens aged 18–30 that lets you live, work, travel, and study in the UK for up to 24 months, subject to selection via a random ballot.

2. Do I need a job offer to apply?

No — you don’t need a job offer. You must first be selected in the ballot before you apply.

3. What are the chances of being selected?

With only 3,000 spots and high demand, selection is random and competitive — think of it as a “lucky draw.”

4. Can I study in the UK on this visa?

Yes — you can study, although some programmes may require additional approval.

5. Do I need to prove funds?

Yes — you must show at least £2,530 in personal savings for support during your stay.