The UK government has officially announced the next ballot for the India Young Professionals Scheme (IYPS) Visa 2026, offering young Indian citizens a valuable opportunity to live and work in the United Kingdom. Oasis Visas brings you all the important details about the upcoming ballot, eligibility requirements, and application process.
Ballot Opening & Closing Dates
The next India Young Professionals Scheme ballot will:
- Open: 17 February 2026 at 2:30 PM (IST)
- Close: 19 February 2026 at 2:30 PM (IST)
Applicants can enter the ballot at any time while it remains open.
What is the India Young Professionals Scheme?
The India Young Professionals Scheme allows eligible Indian citizens aged 18–30 to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years. The scheme operates through a ballot (lottery) system, meaning applicants must first be randomly selected before they can apply for the visa.
For 2026, there are 3,000 total places available. Most of these spots will be allocated during the February ballot, with the remaining places offered in a second and final ballot later in the year.
Who Can Enter the Ballot?
You can enter the ballot if:
- You are an Indian citizen
- You meet the eligibility requirements for the India Young Professionals Scheme visa
- You plan to apply for the visa if selected
Important: You should check your eligibility before entering the ballot.
Information Required to Enter
To successfully submit your ballot entry, you must provide:
- Your full name
- Date of birth
- Passport details
- A scan or photo of your passport
- Phone number
- Email address
There is no fee to enter the ballot. However, if selected, the visa application will cost, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge.
You can submit only one entry per person per ballot. Multiple entries will not be counted.
How Are Successful Applicants Selected?
Successful entries are picked at random.
If selected, you will receive an email within 2 weeks of the ballot closing informing you that you can proceed with the visa application.
What Happens If You Are Selected?
If you are successful in the ballot, you will have 90 days from the date of your selection email to:
- Submit your online visa application
- Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo)
If you decide not to apply after being selected, you are not required to inform the authorities.
What If You Are Not Selected?
- The ballot results are final
- There is no appeal process
- You may enter future ballots if you continue to meet eligibility requirements
How Oasis Visas Can Help
Entering the ballot is simple but ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria and preparing for a successful visa application requires proper guidance.
At Oasis Visas, our experienced immigration team can:
- Assess your eligibility
- Guide you before entering the ballot
- Prepare your documents correctly
- Assist with full visa application process after selection
With limited spots available and high competition, proper preparation is essential.
Don’t Miss This Opportunity!
The India Young Professionals Scheme 2026 ballot opens for a limited time only. If you are planning to live and work in the UK, now is the time to prepare.
Contact Oasis Visas today for expert assistance and secure your UK opportunity with confidence.
