UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Ballot Opens for 2024

19 February, 2024

The UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa ballot is set to open on February 20, 2024, at 14:30 Indian Standard Time, with the ballot closing on February 22, 2024, at 14:30 Indian Standard Time. This youth mobility scheme offers a unique opportunity for Indian nationals to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom for up to two years.

In 2024, the scheme is undergoing modifications, including changes in the number of available slots and adjustments to application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge. The Home Office has announced that there will be 3,000 places available for the 2024 ballot period, with the majority being allocated in February 2024 (first ballot) and any remaining places announced in July 2024 (second ballot).

This article provides an in-depth overview of the youth mobility scheme visa for Indian citizens eager to enhance their careers in the UK.

A Closer Look at the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2024

Starting in January 2024, international students face restrictions on bringing dependents, save for those in postgraduate research, tightening the familial fabric that often supports academic pursuits. Moreover, the closure of a direct pathway from student status to work visas before course completion introduces a new barrier, compelling students to complete their studies before transitioning to employment.

These reforms coincide with the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme, a cornerstone of the UK-India Mobility and Migration Partnership. While student visa changes point to tightening regulations, the Young Professionals Scheme emerges as a contrasting avenue, fostering the UK's commitment to nurturing professional growth between the two nations. It underscores a selective yet potent opening in the UK's immigration landscape, aimed specifically at Indian nationals, epitomising the dual nature of current immigration policies: restrictive in general, yet welcoming within defined frameworks.

Established in May 2021, the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme is designed to be fair and transparent, employing a lottery-based ballot system for selection. Applicants must satisfy specific criteria, including age, educational qualifications, and financial stability, to be eligible. Key eligibility requirements include a minimum income threshold and having no dependent children under 18.

Last year, the United Kingdom held India Young Professionals Scheme ballots in March and July . The country also holds ballots for its Youth Mobility Scheme for nationals from Hong Kong SAR, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

Below, we delve into the eligibility criteria, application process, and permitted activities under the India Young Professionals Scheme visa.

Eligibility Requirements for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2024

To participate in the ballot for the India Young Professional Scheme visa, applicants must ensure they fulfil the following criteria:

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen
• Age: Must be between 18 and 30 years old or turning 18 by the date of travel under the scheme
• Education: Must hold a qualification at UK bachelor’s degree level or above or an equivalent overseas qualification at degree level or above
• Financial Requirement: Proof of savings of at least GBP 2,530. You must have had the money available for at least 28 days. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa
• Dependents: Must not have children under 18 who live with them or for whom they are financially responsible

Additional Documents required

• A valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality
• Proof of at least ￡2,530 in your bank account, such as bank statements
• Evidence of your educational qualifications
• A tuberculosis (TB) test results if you’re living in India or another listed country
• A police report or clearance certificate from India
• You’ll need a blank page in your passport for your visa

Please note:

• You must provide a certified translation if your documents are not in English or Welsh language
• You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances. The Home Office will contact you if you need to provide more evidence
• You cannot apply if you’ve already been in the UK under this scheme or any other Youth Mobility Scheme visa

Ballot Stage of the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2024

In 2024, there are 3,000 available slots for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme visa. Most of these slots will be allocated during the first ballot in February 2024, with the remaining slots available in the July ballot. Each individual is permitted to submit only one entry per ballot. Any additional entries will not be considered.

Participation in the ballot is free, and all entries must be submitted online through the UK home office website. The selection process is random, and successful applicants will be notified via email within two weeks after the ballot closes.

To enter the ballot, Indian nationals must provide the following information to the UK home office:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Current passport details
• A photo or scan of the current passport
• Phone number
• Email address

Visa Application Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2024

Participating in the ballot for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa is free of charge. However, successful entries will be invited to proceed with the visa application process, which requires a visa application fee of GBP 298.

In addition, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and provide their biometrics. The IHS fee is currently GBP 1,552 for applicants under the India Young Professional Scheme. This surcharge grants you access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.

It's important to note that unsuccessful entries in this first ballot can be entered into future ballots for another chance to apply for the youth mobility visa.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application takes longer, for example, because:

• your supporting documents need to be verified
• you need to attend an interview
• of your personal circumstances, for example, if you have a criminal conviction

You can also apply for a faster decision. Reach out to us to fast-track your application to settlement in the UK.

Visa Duration and Permitted Activities for the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2024

The UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa allows successful Indian nationals to live, work, and study in the UK for a maximum of two years. This visa is designed to provide a unique experience for young professionals from India, allowing them to immerse themselves in the UK's diverse culture and professional environment.

Permitted Activities:

1. Study: Visa holders can engage in academic pursuits, enhancing their knowledge and skills during their stay
2. Work: The visa allows individuals to work in most job sectors, offering a chance to gain international work experience and professional growth
3. Self-Employment: You can be self-employed and establish your own company, provided you meet certain conditions:

• Your business premises must be rented
• The total value of your business equipment should not exceed ￡5,000
• You cannot employ any staff

Restrictions:

• Extension of Stay: It is important to note that the visa cannot be extended beyond the two-year period
• Access to Public Funds: Applicants cannot apply for most benefits or public funds
• Family Members: If you wish to bring family members, they must apply for their visas separately
• Professional Sportsperson: Working as a professional sportsperson, including coaching roles, is not permitted under this visa category

Transition to Other Visa Categories:

While the UK-India Young Professionals Scheme Visa is non-extendable, individuals wishing to extend their stay in the UK may explore other visa categories for which they may qualify, subject to meeting the respective criteria.

Next Steps

For the latest information on the India Young Professionals Scheme visa and updates to UK immigration law, keep an eye on the UK government's official website and all our Centuro Global platforms. Stay informed and reach out to us for any queries or assistance.

Written by Kevin N.

Please note that the content of this blog is intended solely for general information purposes and should not be considered exhaustive legal advice. It's advisable to seek professional counsel for any specific concerns.