India Young Professionals Scheme 2026 Ballot Opens February 17: Key Dates and Application Guide
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Published: 2026-02-11 By: XAVIO
The UK Home Office has confirmed that the first ballot for the India Young Professionals Scheme in 2026 will open soon. This popular visa route allows eligible Indian nationals to live, work, and study in the UK for up to 24 months. With limited places available, interested applicants should prepare in advance.
India Young Professionals Scheme: Overview and 2026 Ballot Details
The India Young Professionals Scheme 2026 is a reciprocal mobility program between the UK and India. It offers Indian citizens aged 18-30 the opportunity to experience life in the UK, while UK citizens can apply to work in India without a ballot system.
For 2026, the UK has allocated 3,000 places. Most will be offered in the upcoming February ballot, with the remainder in a second ballot later in the year (expected July 2026).
Ballot opening: 2:30 PM IST on February 17, 2026
Ballot closing: 2:30 PM IST on February 19, 2026
Entry to the ballot is completely free. Applicants can submit only one entry per person. Results will be emailed within two weeks after the ballot closes.
Successful candidates receive an invitation to apply for the visa and have 90 days to complete the application, pay fees, and provide biometrics.
Eligibility Criteria
To enter the ballot, you must meet the basic requirements for the visa:
Indian citizen aged 18-30 (or turning 18 by travel date)
Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (RQF level 6, 7, or 8 equivalent)
Have at least £2,530 in personal savings
No children under 18 living with you or financially dependent on you
Full eligibility is checked during the visa application stage after a successful ballot.
Costs Involved
Ballot entry: Free
Visa application fee: £319
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,552
Proof of £2,530 savings required (separate from fees)
Unsuccessful ballot entries can be resubmitted in future ballots if still eligible.
Reciprocal Arrangement for UK Nationals
The scheme is reciprocal. UK citizens aged 18-30 can apply year-round to live and work in India under the Indian Young Professionals Scheme, without any ballot requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the February 2026 ballot open and close?
It opens at 2:30 PM IST on February 17, 2026, and closes at 2:30 PM IST on February 19, 2026.
How many places are available in 2026?
3,000 total places, with most allocated in the February ballot.
Is entering the ballot free?
Yes, completely free. You only pay if invited to apply for the visa.
What happens if I’m successful in the ballot?
After receiving the email invitation, you must submit your visa application, pay fees, and provide biometrics within 90 days.
Can I enter multiple times?
No, only one entry per person is allowed per ballot.
What if I’m not selected?
You can enter the next ballot if you still meet the eligibility criteria. There is no appeal process.
For official guidance and to enter the ballot when it opens, visit the UK Government page: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa-ballot-system
Stay updated on the latest visa news by visiting our News section: https://visasupdate.com/blog
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