📈 Boosted Opportunities in Tech, R&D, and Creative Sectors
The FTA includes eased mobility and visa access for Indian professionals in:
- Technology and IT
- Engineering
- Research and Development
- Management and Consulting
- Creative fields like music, culinary arts, and yoga
Additionally, the UK will allocate 1,800 annual work visas for Indian nationals in hospitality and cultural sectors, helping to promote Indian heritage and deepen bilateral cultural ties.
🚀 Smoother Mobility for Indian Service Providers
The agreement supports Indian service firms and independent professionals by offering:
- Relaxed business mobility rules
- Improved visa access for Indian engineers, architects, IT experts, and telecom specialists
- A more predictable and transparent visa process
These reforms will help Indian companies set up operations in the UK and boost economic collaboration.
💰 Social Security Relief: £4,000 Crore Savings for Indian Workers
A major highlight is the Double Contributions Convention, which exempts Indian workers on temporary assignments in the UK from paying UK social security contributions.
- Estimated savings: ₹4,000 crore over the next 3 years
- Outcome: Greater financial appeal for UK-based assignments
⚖️ Strategic Trade-Offs: Visa Concessions for Market Access
In return for relaxed visa rules, India has agreed to:
- Lower import tariffs on UK goods (e.g. Scotch whisky, premium vehicles)
- Limited access to UK public procurement, specifically non-sensitive, central-level projects
Local and state-level contracts in India remain protected to safeguard national interests.
✨ Additional Visa Flexibility Coming Soon
As part of broader FTA talks, the UK may also allow:
- Up to 100 additional Indian professionals per year
- New or adjusted visa categories to accommodate evolving needs
🧠 What This Means for Indian Workers and Businesses
The UK-India FTA will:
- Provide more work visas in high-demand sectors
- Reduce costs through social security exemptions
- Enable faster visa processing
- Expand market entry for Indian service providers
As the agreement nears completion, Indian professionals, students, and entrepreneurs can expect:
- Greater mobility
- Fewer visa barriers
- Wider career and business opportunities in the UK