Home > Work in the UK >

Table of Contents:

1. What is the India Young Professionals Scheme (IYPS)?

2. Eligibility Criteria for Indian Nationals

3. Understanding the Ballot System

4. How to Apply for the IYPS Visa

5. Required Documents for a Successful Application

6. Costs and Fees Involved

7. What You Can and Cannot Do on an IYPS Visa

8. Visa Duration and Extension Possibilities

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

10. FAQs About the IYPS Visa

The IYPS visa is a bilateral youth mobility agreement between the UK and India. It offers eligible Indian nationals the opportunity to experience life in the UK through employment, education, or travel.

This visa differs significantly from other UK work visas because it does not require a job offer or employer sponsorship. Instead, it provides Indian nationals with the flexibility to explore different career paths, undertake short courses, and immerse themselves in British culture.

The scheme is reciprocal, meaning UK citizens can also apply for a similar opportunity in India. However, this article focuses exclusively on how Indian nationals can benefit from the IYPS visa route.

To be eligible for the IYPS visa in 2025, Indian nationals must meet all the following criteria:

• Be a citizen of India

• Be aged between 18 and 30 on the date of application

• Hold a qualification equivalent to at least a UK bachelor's degree (UK RQF level 6 or above)

• Have savings of at least £2,530, held for a consecutive 28-day period within 31 days of applying

• Have no dependent children under 18

• Have not previously held an IYPS or Youth Mobility Scheme visa

These eligibility requirements are strictly enforced by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), and applicants should prepare all supporting documents before entering the ballot.

Due to the limited number of annual places (3,000), the IYPS visa operates on a ballot system. This random selection process ensures fair access to the opportunity.

The ballot is typically held twice a year. Indian nationals must enter the ballot online by submitting their full name, date of birth, passport details, and contact information, along with a digital copy of their passport's identity page.

Once the ballot closes, successful entrants are notified via email. Those selected will receive an invitation to apply for the visa within a 90-day window. If not selected, applicants can reapply during the next ballot period.

After receiving a ballot invitation, Indian nationals must submit an official visa application via the UK government's online visa portal. The application process includes:

• Completing an online application form

• Paying the visa fee and healthcare surcharge

• Uploading required documents

• Scheduling a biometric appointment at a visa application centre (if not using the mobile app)

Applicants must prove their identity through the UK Immigration: ID Check app or by attending a biometric appointment. The average processing time for the visa is approximately three weeks, although delays may occur during peak periods.

The application process requires several essential documents. Indian nationals must prepare and submit the following:

• A valid Indian passport

• Degree certificate and academic transcript (translated into English if required)

• Proof of financial funds, such as recent bank statements

• Police clearance certificate (valid within 6 months of application)

• Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate, if applicable

• Ballot invitation email

All documentation must be accurate, complete, and in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

Applying for the IYPS visa involves two main fees:

• Visa application fee: £319

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year, totalling £1,552 for two years

The total cost is approximately £1,871. Applicants should also budget for translation services, TB testing, and any other administrative fees. These payments are made online and are non-refundable.

The IYPS visa offers a wide range of freedoms, making it attractive for young professionals. Indian nationals on this visa are permitted to:

• Work in most employment sectors

• Be self-employed (with restrictions on owning premises or employing staff)

• Study in the UK (subject to course conditions and ATAS certificate requirements)

• Travel freely in and out of the UK during the visa's validity

However, certain restrictions apply. IYPS visa holders cannot:

• Extend their stay beyond the 24-month period

• Access public funds or UK welfare benefits

• Work as a professional sportsperson or coach

• Bring dependents (partner or children must apply separately under another visa category)

The IYPS visa is granted for a fixed 24-month period and cannot be extended. Indian nationals wishing to remain in the UK beyond that time must switch to a different visa category if eligible, such as:

• Skilled Worker visa

• Global Talent visa

• Graduate visa

Planning ahead and building professional networks during the IYPS stay can help facilitate a future transition to another long-term UK visa.

Applicants should be cautious of several common mistakes that can lead to rejection:

• Entering the ballot without meeting all eligibility criteria

• Submitting incomplete or improperly translated documents

• Not maintaining the minimum financial threshold for 28 days

• Missing biometric appointments or submitting late applications

Being thorough and attentive during each stage of the process significantly improves the chances of success.

The India Young Professionals Scheme visa offers Indian nationals a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live, work, and explore the UK for two years. With no need for employer sponsorship and a wide scope of permitted activities, it is especially suited for recent graduates and young professionals seeking international exposure.

While the application process involves competition and thorough documentation, this guide equips Indian nationals with the essential knowledge needed for success. As demand remains high, early preparation, accuracy, and timely action are key.

For official details and application updates, always refer to the UK Government’s IYPS visa page.