UK Announces India Young Professionals Scheme: 3,000 Visas Up for Grabs in Ballot System

New Delhi, India – The British High Commission in India has unveiled details about the India Young Professionals Scheme, offering 3,000 visas to Indian citizens eager to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom. The application process will employ a ballot system, allowing candidates a two-day window to apply.

The first ballot is set to open from 2:30 pm India Standard Time (IST) on February 20, 2024, and will run until 2:30 pm IST on February 22, 2024. Notably, participation in the ballot is free, and the official X (formerly Twitter account) of the British High Commission in India has shared the necessary details.

“The first ballot of the #IndiaYoungProfessionalsScheme opens in less than 24 hours! If you’re an Indian graduate who wants to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom for up to 2 years, you can enter the ballot for a chance to apply for a visa,” the British High Commission’s post reads.

According to information provided by the UK Government website, a total of 3,000 places are available for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa in 2024. The majority of these slots will be allocated during the February ballot, with the remaining places made available in the July ballot.

Eligible Indian citizens interested in entering the ballot must provide the following details:

Name
Date of birth
Passport details
A scan or photo of the passport
Phone number
Email address
Entries in the ballot will be selected randomly, with successful applicants notified via email within two weeks of the ballot closing. Once selected, entrants will have 90 days from the date of the email to apply for the visa online. The application process includes payment of the visa fee, covering the immigration health surcharge, and submission of biometric information. The cost of the visa is £298.

This initiative aims to strengthen cultural and professional ties between the two nations, providing opportunities for Indian graduates to explore career prospects and educational experiences in the United Kingdom. Interested candidates are urged to prepare their documents and be ready to enter the ballot for a chance to secure one of the coveted visas.