Good News for Indians! UK Young Professionals Scheme Ballot Opening Soon 2026: Key Dates & Eligibility

The UK has officially confirmed that the 2026 ballot for the Indian Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) will open soon, offering a golden opportunity for young Indian graduates and early-career professionals to live and work in the UK.

The first ballot round for 2026 will open at 2:30 PM India Standard Time (IST) on 17 February 2026 and will remain open for exactly 48 hours, closing at 2:30 PM IST on 19 February 2026.

Under this programme, the UK Home Office has made 3,000 two-year work visa slots available for eligible Indian citizens aged 18–30. 

Selected candidates will be able to live and work in the UK for up to two years without needing an employer to sponsor them or a job offer, making the scheme one of the most accessible pathways for young professionals seeking international work experience.

How does the Young Professionals Scheme Ballot Work?

Interested applicants must enter the online ballot during the 48-hour window when it is open. 

Entries are randomly selected, and there is no advantage to applying earlier within the period; the key is simply to enter before the deadline.

Once the ballot closes, results will be communicated by email within approximately two weeks. Successful candidates will then have around 90 days to complete their visa application process, including submitting: 

• Documentation
• Paying fees
• Attending biometric appointments

Eligibility Essentials

To enter the ballot and be eligible for a visa offer:

Applicants must be Indian citizens aged 18–30 at the time of application.

A bachelor’s degree or higher qualification is required.

Applicants must hold at least £2,530 (about INR 2.3 lakh) in personal savings.

Only one entry per person is permitted in this ballot round.

What does this mean for Young Indians?

The Young Professionals Scheme offers a unique opportunity for Indian youth to gain global exposure, build international careers, and experience life in one of the world’s leading economies. 

Successful applicants can work across various sectors and even pursue short courses or internships during their stay.

Young Indians eligible for the scheme are encouraged to prepare all necessary documents and be ready to submit their ballot entry as soon as the application window opens on 17 February 2026.

If you’d like more guidance on eligibility, application tips, and key deadlines for the UK Young Professionals Scheme, just contact us, and we will let you know how to ace this!