Indian professionals in technology, management, engineering, and R&D sectors are set to benefit from simpler visa rules under the trade agreement signed between India and the United Kingdom on Tuesday. The deal includes a separate annual quota of 1,800 visas for Indian musicians, chefs, and yoga instructors, as per a report by the Times of India.
The agreement provides easier mobility for service sector workers, particularly for Indian companies operating in the UK. Along with mobility, the UK has committed to supporting digital service exports from India, covering areas like architecture, telecom, engineering, and information technology.
Officials from the Indian government said the deal will save temporary workers around ₹4,000 crore over three years, citing the Double Contributions Convention as a key advantage. “It’s a comprehensive package with good commitment on investments, mobility (easier visas) and lowering costs, helping companies make more aggressive bids (for contracts),” said an official to TOI.
In return, India has agreed to reduce import duties on goods important to the UK, such as Scotch whisky and automobiles. The Indian side had strongly pushed for better access for its business visitors and professionals as part of the deal. India has also agreed to give British companies access to its government procurement market, similar to the terms in the earlier agreement with the UAE. However, this access is limited to non-sensitive central government entities. The agreement does not allow UK firms to compete for state or local government contracts.
The environment chapter includes commitments from India, but government officials clarified that the agreement considers the developmental differences and national priorities of both countries. On labour issues, the deal creates a platform for cooperation on skills, training, and information exchange, with protections for state and local governments. “These chapters do not have a dispute settlement mechanism,” an officer explained further.
The UK has not provided any relief under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. India retains the option to respond if needed.
(With inputs from TOI)
The agreement provides easier mobility for service sector workers, particularly for Indian companies operating in the UK. Along with mobility, the UK has committed to supporting digital service exports from India, covering areas like architecture, telecom, engineering, and information technology.
Officials from the Indian government said the deal will save temporary workers around ₹4,000 crore over three years, citing the Double Contributions Convention as a key advantage. “It’s a comprehensive package with good commitment on investments, mobility (easier visas) and lowering costs, helping companies make more aggressive bids (for contracts),” said an official to TOI.
In return, India has agreed to reduce import duties on goods important to the UK, such as Scotch whisky and automobiles. The Indian side had strongly pushed for better access for its business visitors and professionals as part of the deal. India has also agreed to give British companies access to its government procurement market, similar to the terms in the earlier agreement with the UAE. However, this access is limited to non-sensitive central government entities. The agreement does not allow UK firms to compete for state or local government contracts.
The environment chapter includes commitments from India, but government officials clarified that the agreement considers the developmental differences and national priorities of both countries. On labour issues, the deal creates a platform for cooperation on skills, training, and information exchange, with protections for state and local governments. “These chapters do not have a dispute settlement mechanism,” an officer explained further.
The UK has not provided any relief under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. India retains the option to respond if needed.
(With inputs from TOI)
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