The UK has announced the India Young Professionals Scheme (IYPS) 2026 ballot. Young Indian citizens can live and work in the UK for up to two years through this scheme. The ballot opens on February 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM IST and closes on February 19, 2026, at 2:30 PM IST. This initiative is part of the UK’s Youth Mobility program, designed to promote cultural and professional exchange between India and the UK.

Visa Allocation for 2026

The UK has set aside 3,000 visa spots for Indian applicants. Most visas will be distributed in the February ballot, while the remaining spots will be offered later in the year. The ballot is free to enter, and winners are chosen randomly. Those selected will have 90 days to submit their visa application.

This visa is especially popular among recent graduates and early-career professionals. It allows applicants to gain international work experience without needing employer sponsorship. Due to limited slots, interested candidates should check eligibility and prepare documents in advance.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be Indian citizens aged 18–30. They should have a valid passport and no travel restrictions to the UK.

Selected candidates can work in the UK for up to two years without employer sponsorship. The visa also provides flexibility to explore career opportunities, experience UK work culture, and build professional networks. Overall, the scheme encourages cultural exchange while offering young Indians global work exposure.

How the Ballot Works

The first step is to enter the online ballot. Only eligible Indian citizens can participate. Entry is free, but applicants must provide:

  • Full name as per passport

  • Date of birth

  • Passport details

  • Contact information

Each candidate can submit only one entry. Multiple entries may lead to disqualification.

After the ballot closes on February 19, 2026, results will be sent via email within two weeks. Selected candidates will receive an official invitation and have 90 days to complete the visa application.

Steps to Apply After Selection

Once selected, candidates must complete the visa application by:

  1. Paying the visa fee – £319

  2. Paying the health surcharge – required for NHS coverage

  3. Submitting biometrics – fingerprints and photo

  4. Submitting the application online – via the official UK visa portal

If a candidate does not proceed with the visa, it will not affect eligibility for future ballots. The slot will be reassigned in upcoming ballots.

Benefits of the Scheme

The India Young Professionals Scheme offers several advantages:

  • International work experience – gain exposure to UK workplaces

  • Flexible work options – work for two years without sponsorship

  • Cultural exchange – experience life in the UK and connect with professionals

  • Career growth – build a global professional network

Conclusion

The 2026 IYPS ballot provides a great opportunity for young Indians to live and work in the UK. With only 3,000 visas available, applicants should act quickly, verify eligibility, and prepare documents carefully. This scheme remains popular for graduates seeking international work experience and career growth.

Your UK career adventure starts here—check your eligibility and enter the 2026 Young Professionals Visa ballot.