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UK Visa Desk

FAQ

High Potential Individual visa: questions Indian applicants ask

Direct answer

6 questions Indian applicants ask about the High Potential Individual visa, answered with the figures that apply in 2026: Is IIT or IIM on the list?

Reviewed by UK Visa Desk counselling team, Visa counsellors, Pro Lifeset Overseas Pvt Ltd, Patiala. Licence 849/DC/PTA/PLA/LC-3/2024. Last verified .

Every answer below is dated to the dataset it draws on. If your question is not here, ask it on WhatsApp and we add it to the page.

Information only. We do not file the High Potential Individual visa. Already in the UK? We refer you to a regulated adviser (OISC or SRA) and charge nothing for the introduction. Applying from India and unsure which route fits? Ask the desk on WhatsApp.

Questions and answers

Is IIT or IIM on the list?

No. The list takes universities ranked in the top 50 of at least two global rankings, and no Indian institution has qualified so far. Check the list for your award year on gov.uk.

Can I apply from India?

Yes, this is an entry clearance route. It is simple enough that most applicants file it themselves, so we provide information rather than a service.

Does it lead to settlement?

No. The 2 or 3 years do not count, and it cannot be extended. People usually switch to a sponsored route from inside the UK.

What is the English requirement now?

CEFR B2 for applications made on or after 8 January 2026, which is IELTS 5.5 in each component or the equivalent in another SELT, or a degree taught in English confirmed by ECCTIS.

Can my spouse work?

Yes. Dependant partners have full work rights.

What does it cost?

The visa fee plus the health surcharge at £1,035 a year for 2 or 3 years. The fee calculator gives the rupee total.

  • Punjab licence: 849/DC/PTA/PLA/LC-3/2024valid to 22 July 2029
  • CIN: U52291PB2024PTC060508Pro Lifeset Overseas Pvt Ltd