The new India-UK youth exchange programme was launched on 28th February 2023 with a 48-hour Indian Young Professionals Scheme visa ballot. The new programme was celebrated by the British government as evidence of the value of bilateral relations and its ability to provide "great benefits" to both nations.
The India-UK Young Professionals Scheme will offer 3,000 places annually and will enable qualifying Indian citizens to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said that India is a hugely important partner to the UK and “the deeper ties we are forging now will help to grow the UK economy and boost industries for the future”.
What is the India Young Professionals Scheme visa?
The reciprocal system announced by Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Rishi Sunak at the end of 2022, has been championed as a chance for young people from both countries to "benefit from cultural experiences and inject expertise into both economies".
Indian nationals between the ages of 18 and 30 are permitted to reside and work in the UK for up to two years on an India Young Professionals Scheme visa. Applicants do not need a sponsor or job offer to apply.
What are the eligibility criteria for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa?
Prior to entering the ballot, applicants must check their eligibility.
To be eligible they must:
- Be an Indian citizen between the ages of 18 and 30
- Have at least £2,530 in savings
- Have access to those savings for at least 28 days in succession
- Have a degree equal to a UK bachelor's degree or higher (or an international equivalent)
- Not have children under the age of 18 living with them or for whom they are financially responsible
- Not have previously resided in the UK under the Youth Mobility Scheme
A full list of eligibility criteria is available here.
How much does the visa cost?
There is a visa application fee of £259 and a Health Surcharge of £940 (fees as of 1st March 2023).
How many places were available in the initial ballot?
In the February ballot, 2,400 visas were available, and successful applicants will be notified by email within two weeks of the ballot's conclusion. They will then be given the opportunity to apply for a visa; they must do so within 30 days of the email's date and pay the appropriate fees.
A visa may not always be issued even if a candidate wins the ballot and there is no right of appeal for applicants who are unsuccessful.
When is the next ballot?
The next ballot is expected to be later this year; July 2023 has been reported as a likely date. The ballot is free to enter and will be available online. Applicants will need to provide their personal and contact details and a scanned copy of their passport.
How 3CS can help
For further information on the Indian Young Professionals Scheme visa or assistance with any business immigration matter, please get in touch with your usual 3CS contact.