United Kingdom-India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS)

GS2 – IR 

Why in News?

The ballot for the United Kingdom-India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) is set to open soon.

About the Scheme

• The YPS is a reciprocal initiative that enables nationals from the UK and India to live, study, travel, and work in the other country for up to two years.
• Launch Year: February 2023
• Eligible Age Group: 18 to 30 years
• Framework: It operates under the Migration and Mobility Agreement, signed between the two nations in 2021.
• Annual Quota: The scheme is capped at 3,000 young professionals per year for each country.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must hold a UK bachelor’s degree or higher.
• They need to show proof of at least £2,530 in savings to support themselves in the UK.

Key Features

• No Employer Sponsorship Required: Unlike other work visa categories, YPS does not mandate a pre-approved job offer or salary threshold.
• Flexibility in Job Search: Indian nationals can arrive in the UK and look for employment or start a business if they have sufficient savings.
• Non-Extendable Visa: The scheme is not renewable beyond two years. However, individuals may transition to a regular work visa, which is typically valid for five years and can be extended.
• No Dependents Allowed: Applicants cannot bring dependent children under this scheme.

Mains question

Examine the impact of migration and mobility agreements, such as the UK-India YPS, on economic opportunities and cultural exchange for young professionals.