4 minHow to get UK Work Visa from India
If you're in India and planning to work in the UK, understanding the visa process is crucial. The UK offers a variety of visa options, each tailored to specific needs, such as long-term employment, entrepreneurship and international agreements. This guide will help you navigate the application process and highlight how Paysend supports you in staying connected with loved ones back home.
Visa options for Indian Citizens
Here’s an overview of key UK work visas available to Indian citizens:
1. India Young Professionals Scheme Visa
This visa is designed for young Indian citizens aged 18 to 30, allowing them to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
- Eligibility: Must be an Indian citizen, aged 18 to 30, with an eligible qualification and £2,530 in savings.
- Application Process: Enter the ballot system, receive an invitation and apply online within 90 days.
- Cost: £298 application fee + £1,552 healthcare surcharge.
Processing Time: Usually 3 weeks after submitting all documents.
2. Temporary Work – International Agreement Visa
This visa allows you to work in the UK under international treaties or laws, such as:
- Working for an overseas government or recognised international organisation.
- Working as a private servant in a diplomatic household.
- Eligibility: Must have a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed UK employer, proving your work relates to your sponsor’s activities.
- Duration:
- Up to 2 years for government or international organisation workers.
- Up to 5 years for private servants in diplomatic households, with extensions available. - Cost: £298 application fee + £1,035 healthcare surcharge per year.
- Processing Time:
- 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
- 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.
Additional Notes: You can study, work a second job (within specific guidelines) and travel abroad, but you cannot access public funds or start work before your visa is approved.
3. Skilled Worker Visa
For professionals with job offers in eligible fields, such as healthcare, engineering or IT. This visa can lead to permanent residency.
4. Health and Care Worker Visa
Specifically for medical professionals joining the NHS or working in adult social care.
5. Graduate Visa
For students who recently completed a degree in the UK, allowing them to work for up to 2 years.
How to apply for a UK Work Visa
Steps to Apply
- Choose the Right Visa: Determine which visa suits your goals and eligibility.
- Prepare your documents:
- Valid passport or travel ID
- Certificate of sponsorship (if applicable)
- Proof of personal savings
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g. IELTS)
- Tuberculosis test results (mandatory for Indian applicants) - Apply online: Submit your application via the official UK Visas and Immigration portal: Apply for a UK Visa.
- Book a Biometrics appointment: Schedule this at a VFS Global Centre in India.
- Pay the fees: Visa fees and healthcare surcharge vary by visa type.
- Track your application: Use the UKVI portal to monitor the status of your visa.
Visa requirements, fees and processing times are subject to change. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, please refer to the official UK Government website: www.gov.uk.
How Paysend supports you
For many Indian professionals, sending money back home is a priority. The Paysend app makes it simple:
- Fast transfers: Send money instantly to Indian bank accounts or bank account UPI paid out in INR, or send money to India via bank cards, paid out in INR or USD.
- Low fees: Transparent pricing with no hidden costs - fee-free to bank accounts and just £1 to your recipient’s bank card.
- Secure transactions: We prioritise the safety of your money every step of the way
- Convenient options: Transfer directly to bank accounts or digital wallets
With Paysend, you can focus on building a life in the UK while staying connected to your loved ones in India. Whether you're applying for a visa under the India Young Professionals Scheme, the Temporary Work – International Agreement visa or another category, the UK offers exciting opportunities for Indian citizens. Let Paysend help you stay connected with home as you begin your new journey in the UK.
Get started with the Paysend app
Experience fast, seamless money transfers with the Paysend mobile app. Choose the download link for your device and get started in moments:
Browsing on a desktop? No problem! Create your account directly on our official Paysend website. And if you need help setting up, here's a step-by-step guide to setting up your Paysend account.