UK to Expand Work Visas and Simplify Entry Rules for Indian Professionals Under FTA
The United Kingdom and India are nearing the finalization of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that promises major benefits for Indian professionals across various sectors. The upcoming deal will streamline visa processes, making it easier for Indian citizens to live, work, and contribute to the UK economy.
Boosted Opportunities for Indian Professionals in Tech, R&D, and Creative Sectors
Under the FTA, the UK will ease mobility and visa rules for Indian professionals, especially those in:
- Technology and IT
- Engineering
- Research and Development
- Management and Consulting
- Creative industries such as music, culinary arts, and yoga
The UK will also allocate 1,800 annual work visas for Indian nationals in the hospitality and cultural sectors, enabling musicians, chefs, and yoga instructors to work and promote Indian heritage in the UK. This initiative is part of a broader push to encourage cultural exchange and foster deeper bilateral ties.
Smoother Mobility for Indian Service Providers
The FTA includes strong provisions to enhance market access for Indian service firms and independent professionals. These include:
- Relaxed business mobility rules for Indian companies
- Improved visa access for Indian architects, engineers, IT professionals, and telecom experts
- A more predictable and transparent process for temporary work visa issuance
These reforms are designed to facilitate Indian businesses setting up operations in the UK and boost bilateral economic collaboration.
Social Security Relief to Save Indian Workers ₹4,000 Crore
One of the most notable benefits of the agreement is the Double Contributions Convention, which exempts Indian workers on temporary assignments in the UK from paying UK social security contributions.
This exemption is expected to save Indian companies and professionals up to ₹4,000 crore over the next three years, offering significant financial relief and improving the appeal of UK-based assignments for Indian talent.
Strategic Trade-offs: Visa Concessions for Market Access
The eased visa rules were a key demand from India, and in exchange, India has agreed to:
- Lower import tariffs on UK goods such as Scotch whisky and premium automobiles
- Provide limited access to government procurement for UK firms—specifically for non-sensitive central-level projects
Contracts at the state and local levels will remain protected and outside the scope of the deal, ensuring India's national interests are safeguarded.
Additional Minor Visa Flexibility on the Horizon
As part of the broader FTA negotiations, the UK has also agreed to introduce minor changes to its immigration system, potentially allowing an additional 100 Indian professionals to enter the UK each year under new or adjusted categories.
What This Means for Indian Workers and Businesses
The UK-India trade deal offers new pathways for Indian nationals aiming to work, do business, or provide services in the UK. Key benefits include:
- More work visas in high-demand sectors
- Lower costs through social security exemptions
- Faster processing and easier access for Indian professionals and firms
- Broader market entry opportunities for Indian service providers
As the FTA nears completion, Indian travelers, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs can look forward to greater mobility, fewer barriers, and expanded career opportunities in the United Kingdom.