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India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2026: July Ballot Opens on 21 July – Eligibility, Dates & How to Apply

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The UK Government has officially announced the second and final ballot for the India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) Visa 2026. Indian citizens who wish to live, work, study, and travel in the United Kingdom now have another opportunity to apply through the ballot system.

The ballot will open on 21 July 2026 at 1:30 PM (IST) and close on 23 July 2026 at 1:30 PM (IST). Entry into the ballot is completely free, but only selected applicants will receive an invitation to submit a visa application.

In this guide, you'll learn everything about the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa 2026, including eligibility, required documents, application process, fees, important dates, and FAQs.

What is the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa?

The India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) is a special visa program introduced under the UK-India Migration and Mobility Partnership. It allows eligible Indian citizens to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.

Selected applicants can:

• Live in the UK
• Work in most jobs
• Study
• Travel in and out of the UK during the visa period

Since the number of visas is limited, applicants must first enter a random ballot before they can apply.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/india-young-professionals-scheme-visa-ballot-system

How Many Places Are Available?

The UK Government has allocated 3,000 places for the India Young Professionals Scheme in 2026.

Most visas were allocated during the February 2026 ballot, while the remaining places will be offered through the July 2026 ballot, which is the final ballot of the year.

Who Can Apply?

To enter the ballot, applicants must be:

• An Indian citizen
• Eligible for the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
• Planning to apply for the visa if selected
• Able to meet all visa requirements

Documents Required for the Ballot

Applicants will need:

• Full Name
• Date of Birth
• Passport Details
• Passport Scan or Photograph
• Mobile Number
• Email Address

Make sure all information is accurate before submitting your ballot entry.

How Does the Ballot Work?

The selection process is completely random.

Applicants can submit only one entry per person during the ballot period.

Multiple entries by the same person will not be accepted.

Successful applicants will receive an email invitation to apply for the visa.

Is There Any Fee to Enter the Ballot?

No.

Entering the ballot is completely free.

However, if selected, applicants must pay:

• Visa Application Fee: £340
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Any applicable biometric appointment charges

What Happens if You Are Selected?

If your name is selected, you'll receive an email from UK Visas and Immigration.

You will then have 90 days to:

• Apply online.
• Pay the visa application fee.
• Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
• Book and attend your biometric appointment.
• Submit all required supporting documents.

What Happens if You Are Not Selected?

If your ballot entry is unsuccessful:

• You cannot appeal the decision.
• Results are final.
• You can enter future ballots if you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Benefits of the India Young Professionals Scheme Visa

This visa offers several advantages:

• Live in the UK for up to 2 years
• Work legally in most sectors
• Gain international work experience
• Study eligible courses
• Travel freely within the visa validity
• Experience British culture and lifestyle

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Although selection is random, you should:

• Enter only once.
• Ensure all details are correct.
• Use a valid passport.
• Keep your email active.
• Check your inbox and spam folder regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When does the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot open?

The July 2026 ballot opens on 21 July 2026 at 1:30 PM IST.

When does it close?

It closes on 23 July 2026 at 1:30 PM IST.

Is the ballot free?

Yes, entering the ballot is completely free.

How many visas are available?

There are 3,000 visas available in 2026, with the remaining places being allocated through the July ballot.

Can I apply without entering the ballot?

No. You must first be selected through the ballot before submitting a visa application.

How long do I have to apply after selection?

You have 90 days from the invitation email to complete your visa application.