Thousands every year Indian students and young professionals dream of pursuing education or career opportunities in the United Kingdom. The UK, with its world-class universities and vibrant job market, continues to be one of the top destinations for Indian students. However, the main hurdle many face is securing a visa, whether or not it is study visa or a work permit.These obstacles often make it difficult for even the most deserving candidates to realize their aspirations.
What is it Young Professional Scheme in India
In response to this challenge, the UK government introduced a unique initiative – the Young Professionals in India Visa scheme. This scheme offers a golden opportunity for Indian students and young professionals to live and work in the UK for up to two years. Designed to ease some of the immigration barriers, the scheme is particularly attractive to people aged between 18 and 30.
The Young Professionals in India scheme aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and culture while giving young Indians a chance to build their careers in the UK. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional looking to expand your horizons, this visa can be the perfect gateway to working and living abroad.
Who is the India Young Professional Visa for?
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must participate in the Young Professionals Program in India ballot. Unlike traditional visa applications, this voting system selects applicants at random, making the process less competitive and more accessible. After voting closes, successful applicants are notified by email within two weeks.
There is no fee to take part in the vote, but it is important that applicants are sure they can meet the financial and educational visa requirements and can afford the visa application fee of £298.
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Visa for Young Professionals
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be an Indian citizen between the ages of 18 and 30 years.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher qualification (equivalent to Levels 6, 7 or 8 of the UK Regulated Qualifications Framework).
- Have a minimum of £2,530 in savings to support yourself during your stay in the UK.
- Have no children under the age of 18 living with them or financially dependent on them.
Once selected, successful candidates can apply online, pay the visa fee and provide their biometrics. The UK government usually makes a decision on a visa application within three weeks of receiving all the necessary documents.
What are the benefits of Indian visa for young professionals?
The India Visa for Young Professionals offers considerable flexibility. While in the UK, visa holders can:
- Work in most fields, including as self-employed (as long as they meet certain conditions regarding premises and employees).
- Study, although some courses may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
- Enter and exit the UK several times during the two-year period of validity of the visa.
Are there any restrictions?
Despite its advantages, the visa has some limitations. For example, visa recipients cannot:
- Extending their stay beyond the 24-month period.
- Access public funds or apply for most government benefits.
- Include family members in your visa application.
- Work as professional athletes, for example coaches.
