Passports and Partnerships: UK’s Visa Relaxation Opens Doors for India

 

India will benefit from the relaxed UK visa rules following the historic India-UK Free Trade Agreement signed on May 6, 2025. The deal ushers in liberalized visa regimes and improved professional mobility for Indian nationals, particularly in the areas of technology, engineering, architecture, and other high-skilled professionals. Indian professionals, such as business visitors, contractual service suppliers, chefs, musicians, and yoga instructors, will have greater ease of working in the UK under wider occupational categories, though applicants would need to meet stringent qualification requirements.

 

Among the key highlights is the exemption of double social security contributions for three years for Indian workers on short-term assignments, potentially saving Indian professionals and businesses an estimated ₹4,000 crore over three years. While there is no alteration in student visas, the agreement is expected to increase bilateral trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration, opening a new chapter of opportunity for Indian talent in the UK.

 

Source: Times of India, Economic Times, BBC