UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has firmly ruled out relaxing visa rules for India, even as he leads one of the largest-ever UK trade delegations to the country. The visit aims to strengthen economic and cultural relations following the recently signed UK-India trade agreement, which promises a major boost in bilateral trade and investments.
Speaking ahead of his meetings in Mumbai and New Delhi, Starmer emphasized that the visit was about “providing opportunities” for Indian businesses to benefit from the deal—not changing visa policies. “No business leader I’ve met has raised the question of visas,” he told reporters, reiterating that visas “played no part” in the trade agreement.
No New Visa Routes for Indian Workers or Students
Despite speculation that the UK might open new visa pathways for Indian professionals—especially after U.S. changes to H-1B visa rules—Starmer said there were no plans for new visa routes. He maintained that the UK continues to welcome “top talent from across the globe” but remains committed to reducing overall immigration levels.
The new trade deal, signed in July 2025, reduces tariffs on key exports such as UK cars and whisky, while making Indian textiles and jewelry cheaper for British consumers. It also grants Indian employees on short-term UK assignments a three-year exemption from social security payments, though ministers confirmed that immigration rules remain unchanged.
Trade, Flights, and Films Strengthen Ties
During the two-day visit, Starmer announced that Yash Raj Films will produce three new Bollywood films in the UK from 2026, ending an eight-year gap. Downing Street said the move would generate 3,000 jobs and inject millions into the UK economy.
Additionally, British Airways unveiled plans for a third daily Delhi–Heathrow flight, and Manchester Airport announced a new direct route to Delhi, reinforcing growing connectivity between the two nations.
Diplomatic and Human Rights Discussions
Starmer is also expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he will raise the case of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh imprisoned in India for seven years without conviction. On geopolitical issues, he reaffirmed the UK’s stance against Russia’s oil trade, clarifying he would not congratulate Vladimir Putin on his birthday—a pointed diplomatic message.
Starmer’s visit underscores the UK’s intent to deepen trade and cultural relations with India while maintaining a firm stance on immigration—a balance reflecting the priorities of his Labour government.
