Posted Wednesday 11th February 2026
The Home Office has confirmed that the first ballot for the 2026 India Young Professionals Scheme visa will open at 2:30pm IST on 17 February 2026 and will close at 2:30pm IST on 19 February 2026. A total of 3,000 visa places are available under the scheme for 2026, with the majority to be allocated through this initial ballot. Remaining places will be offered in a second and final ballot later in the year.
Eligible Indian citizens may enter the ballot free of charge by providing their name, date of birth, passport details, a scanned copy or photo of their passport, phone number, and email address.
Successful entrants will receive an email invitation to apply for the visa. They will then have 90 days from the date of the email to complete the application process, including biometrics, payment of the visa fee, and the immigration health surcharge. Ballot outcomes are final and cannot be appealed.
The India Young Professionals Scheme forms part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to strengthening mobility and cultural exchange between the UK and India.
Individuals seeking guidance with the ballot process, eligibility criteria or the visa application process are encouraged to get in touch with Neelam Rani, Senior Associate in our immigration team.
Source: India Young Professionals Scheme visa: Eligibility – GOV.UK
This article is for reference purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific legal advice about your specific circumstances should always be sought separately before taking or deciding not to take any action.
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