The UK Government has officially opened the India Young Professionals Scheme (IYPS) 2026 ballot, offering young Indian citizens a unique opportunity to live, work, and travel in the United Kingdom for up to two years. This scheme is part of the UK–India mobility partnership and is highly competitive due to limited visa slots. Below is a complete guide covering February 2026 ballot dates, eligibility requirements, visa quota, fees, and step-by-step application guidance.

📅 February 2026 Ballot Dates

• Ballot Opens: 17 February 2026 at 2:30 PM IST
• Ballot Closes: 19 February 2026 at 2:30 PM IST

The ballot remains open for only 48 hours, so applicants must apply within this window.

🎯 Visa Quota for 2026

• Total Visa Allocation: 3,000 places
• Most of the slots are expected to be allocated during the February ballot.
• Remaining places may be released in additional ballots later in the year.

Because demand is high, selection is done randomly through a ballot system.

👤 Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the India Young Professionals Scheme, applicants must:

✔ Be an Indian citizen
✔ Be aged 18 to 30 years at the time of application
✔ Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher qualification
✔ Have at least £2,530 in savings (to prove self-maintenance)
✔ Not have any dependent children under 18 financially dependent on them
✔ Not have previously been granted this visa under the scheme

💳 Is There a Ballot Fee?

The ballot entry is completely free.

However, if you are selected, you will need to pay:

• Visa application fee (approximately £319)
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Biometrics fee (if applicable)

📧 What Happens If You Are Selected?

If your name is selected in the ballot:

1. You will receive an official email notification (usually within 2 weeks after ballot closure).
2. You will have 90 days to submit your visa application.
3. You must complete:
   • Online visa application
   • Payment of visa and health surcharge fees
   • Biometrics appointment
4. Once approved, you can travel to the UK and stay for up to 2 years.

If you are not selected, you may enter future ballots (as long as you remain age eligible).

🌍 What Can You Do on This Visa?

This visa allows you to:

✔ Live in the UK for up to 2 years
✔ Work for most employers
✔ Be self-employed (with some restrictions)
✔ Travel freely in and out of the UK

Important Restrictions:

• You cannot bring dependents
• This visa does not directly lead to permanent settlement

📝 Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet age, qualification, and financial requirements.

Step 2: Enter the Ballot

Visit the official UK Government website during the ballot window:

🔗 Official Ballot Page:
https://www.gov.uk/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa

Step 3: Wait for Email Result

If selected, follow the instructions in the email.

Step 4: Submit Visa Application

Apply online through:

🔗 UK Visa Application Portal:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk

Step 5: Book Biometrics Appointment

Complete biometrics at your nearest UK Visa Application Centre in India.

Step 6: Wait for Decision

Processing times may vary.

📌 Important Tips for Applicants

• Only one ballot entry per person is allowed. Multiple entries may lead to disqualification.
• Keep passport details ready before entering the ballot.
• Maintain the required funds for at least 28 consecutive days before applying.
• Apply only through the official UK Government website (gov.uk).

📚 Official Sources

• UK Government – India Young Professionals Scheme
  https://www.gov.uk/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa
• UK Visa and Immigration Guidance
  https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration

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