The soon-to-be-finalised UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to transform how Indian professionals and businesses engage with the UK market. From simplified visa norms to social security exemptions, this agreement promises increased access, reduced costs, and greater mobility across sectors.
Who Benefits?
Tech experts, R&D specialists, engineers, and professionals from the creative industry—including musicians, chefs, and yoga instructors—will gain easier entry into the UK job market. The UK has agreed to grant:
- 1,800 annual visas to Indian creative and hospitality professionals
- Temporary visa streamlining for skilled workers in IT, telecom, architecture, and management
Easier Mobility, Lower Costs
Indian service companies and individual professionals will now enjoy:
- Simplified business mobility rules
- Predictable and transparent visa procedures
- Faster and easier entry for short-term work projects
The deal also includes provisions that allow Indian firms to establish operations in the UK more efficiently.
Big Savings: No More Dual Social Security Payments
One of the most impactful clauses of the agreement is the Double Contributions Convention, which will:
- Exempt Indian workers from paying UK social security during short assignments
- Save Indian businesses and professionals nearly ₹4,000 crore over three years
This makes UK postings more financially viable for Indian firms and employees.
Strategic Trade-Offs: Visas for Tariff Cuts
The visa liberalisation was a key Indian demand in exchange for India lowering import duties on high-value UK goods like Scotch whisky and premium cars.
In return, India has also agreed to limited access to central government procurement projects for UK firms—while keeping state-level and sensitive contracts off-limits, safeguarding national interests.
More Opportunities Ahead
Alongside the FTA, the UK has hinted at minor additional visa relaxations, potentially allowing another 100 Indian professionals entry annually.
What It Means for Indian Professionals
- More job opportunities in the UK across high-demand fields
- Lower expenses due to social security relief
- Smoother immigration processes for work and business visits
- Boost in bilateral innovation and cultural exchange
As the FTA nears finalisation, it is shaping up to be a landmark deal—positioning Indian talent at the heart of UK’s growth story.
