X: @the_news_21
The United Kingdom has announced the opening of applications for 3,000 visas under its India Young Professionals Scheme, offering Indian citizens the opportunity to live, work, or study in the UK for up to two years. The visas will be allocated through a ballot system, providing candidates with a chance to apply within a two-day window.
The ballot for the India Young Professionals Scheme will be open from 2:30pm India Standard Time (IST) on 20th February 2024 to 2:30pm IST on 22nd February 2024. Notably, participation in the ballot is free of charge.
The British High Commission in India, through its official X (formerly Twitter) account, has shared details about the first ballot, encouraging Indian graduates who aspire to live, work, or study in the UK to participate.
The scheme offers a total of 3,000 places for Indian citizens in 2024, with the majority of spots available in the February ballot. Additional places will be offered in a July ballot later in the year, as stated on the UK Government website.
Eligible Indian citizens interested in applying for the visa must provide essential details such as their name, date of birth, passport information (including a scan or photo of their passport), phone number, and email address. Applicants must ensure they meet the financial, educational, and other requirements specified by the UK Government to be eligible for the visa.
Entries to the ballot will be selected randomly, and successful applicants will be notified via email within two weeks of the ballot closing. Those selected will have 90 days from the date of the email notification to apply for the visa online. The visa application process will require payment of the visa application fee, which includes the immigration health surcharge, and the provision of biometric information. The cost of the visa is £298.
The India Young Professionals Scheme represents an opportunity for Indian graduates to gain valuable international experience and contribute to the vibrant academic, professional, and cultural landscape of the United Kingdom.
