Youth Mobility Scheme / Young Professionals Scheme Overview
The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) is a UK Visa category that lets young people from participating countries and territories live, work, and study in the United Kingdom for up to two years, without needing a job offer, employer sponsor, or Certificate of Sponsorship. Indian nationals apply under the related India Young Professionals Scheme, which operates through its own annual ballot process rather than open, first-come applications. Eligible applicants are generally aged 18 to 30 (up to 35 for a small number of nationalities), must show savings of at least £2,530 held for 28 consecutive days, and cannot have used this route before. For countries where demand exceeds the annual quota, including India, the Home Office selects participants through a random ballot before they can proceed to a full visa application. This is one of the UK’s most flexible work-related visa routes. Approval is decided solely by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Youth Mobility Scheme / Young Professionals Scheme Fees
| Fee Type | Government Fee (GBP) |
| Visa Application Fee | £340 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), per year (discounted rate) | £776 |
| Total for a 2-Year Visa (Fee + 2 Years IHS) | £1,892 |
| Priority Service (optional, where available) | +£500 |
| Super Priority Service (optional, where available) | +£1,000 |
The IHS for Youth Mobility Scheme applicants is charged at the discounted rate of £776 per year rather than the standard £1,035 adult rate. Fees are generally non-refundable if the application is refused, though the IHS may be refunded pro-rata if the visa holder later leaves the UK permanently before the visa expires. Exchange rates fluctuate, so INR values are approximate. Information may vary depending on individual circumstances; confirm the current fee at gov.uk before paying.
Youth Mobility Scheme / Young Professionals Scheme Processing Time
Processing time for the UK Youth Mobility Scheme Visa depends on your nationality and whether a ballot applies. For Indian applicants under the Young Professionals Scheme, the process begins with registering for the ballot during its announced window, after which selected applicants are notified and given a specific timeframe to submit their full visa application. Once a full application is lodged, standard processing generally takes around three weeks, though this can vary. Because missing the ballot registration window or the subsequent application deadline forfeits your place, applicants should track official announcements closely and prepare their documents, including proof of savings, in advance.
Required Documents Checklist
Document requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the visa application centre.
Youth Mobility Scheme / Young Professionals Scheme Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Applying under the Youth Mobility Scheme or India Young Professionals Scheme involves tracking ballot windows, meeting strict savings requirements, and submitting a complete application within a tight deadline once selected. Shivansh Consultants offers documentation support to help you prepare your savings evidence and application materials in advance, so you’re ready to act quickly if selected. Our personalised guidance keeps you informed about ballot announcements and deadlines. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance throughout your UK Visa journey, without ever guaranteeing ballot selection or final approval.