The recently finalised India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which concluded recently on May 6, 2025, marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, particularly in enhancing professional mobility between the two nations. This agreement will facilitate the movement of various professionals, including contractual service suppliers, business visitors, investors, intra-corporate transferees, and independent professionals such as yoga instructors, musicians, and chefs.
Increased accessibility for professionals in IndiaThe FTA makes it simpler for Indian professionals to work in the UK by introducing rules that streamline employment laws and visa procedures. Under business mobility options, the UK has increased the range of occupations for which highly qualified Indian experts can apply. However, to utilise these expanded routes, professionals must prove they have the necessary experience and qualifications for those specific roles, as the UK will require them to meet strict standards before allowing them to work in the country.
Read more: 27 airports closed, around 400+ flights cancelled; all you need to know
Social security exemptions
A notable provision waives national insurance payments for UK-based companies seconding Indian workers, reducing costs and potentially increasing the number of Indian professionals in the UK . This exemption, which will remain valid for the first three years, was one of the key demands made by the Indian side to avoid double taxation. This was not welcomed by some of the critics though, who argue that the agreement could undercut British workers and increase immigration. Meanwhile, the government maintains that the deal won't significantly affect immigration.
Read more: 5 amazing desert experiences from across the world
The UK Government emphasises that the FTA preserves Britain’s existing immigration rules. Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, clarified that the deal does not affect the points-based system. It only covers business mobility, which is different from immigration, as it is about travel for specific and temporary business purposes. It's anticipated that by 2040, this deal will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion ($34 billion) a year. This major development also indicates greater and enhanced collaboration and mutual economic expansion between the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world.
All things considered, the FTA between India and the UK is a big step toward enhancing economic relations and promoting business travel between the two countries.
Increased accessibility for professionals in IndiaThe FTA makes it simpler for Indian professionals to work in the UK by introducing rules that streamline employment laws and visa procedures. Under business mobility options, the UK has increased the range of occupations for which highly qualified Indian experts can apply. However, to utilise these expanded routes, professionals must prove they have the necessary experience and qualifications for those specific roles, as the UK will require them to meet strict standards before allowing them to work in the country.
Read more: 27 airports closed, around 400+ flights cancelled; all you need to know
Social security exemptions
A notable provision waives national insurance payments for UK-based companies seconding Indian workers, reducing costs and potentially increasing the number of Indian professionals in the UK . This exemption, which will remain valid for the first three years, was one of the key demands made by the Indian side to avoid double taxation. This was not welcomed by some of the critics though, who argue that the agreement could undercut British workers and increase immigration. Meanwhile, the government maintains that the deal won't significantly affect immigration.
Read more: 5 amazing desert experiences from across the world
The UK Government emphasises that the FTA preserves Britain’s existing immigration rules. Douglas Alexander, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, clarified that the deal does not affect the points-based system. It only covers business mobility, which is different from immigration, as it is about travel for specific and temporary business purposes. It's anticipated that by 2040, this deal will increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion ($34 billion) a year. This major development also indicates greater and enhanced collaboration and mutual economic expansion between the fifth and sixth largest economies in the world.
All things considered, the FTA between India and the UK is a big step toward enhancing economic relations and promoting business travel between the two countries.
You may also like
MEA-security forces joint briefing key points: 'Pak opposed TRF mention in UNSC statement despite group claiming Pahalgam attack'
Aldenhoven fire: Multiple children injured after horror blaze breaks out in circus tent
IPL 2025: BCCI to pay tribute to Indian armed forces with B Praak performance in Dharamshala
Ex-Man Utd star shares last thing Marcus Rashford wants after 's****ing on his doorstep' remark
Operation Sindoor: Villagers along LoC in J&K shifted to safer locations amid ceasefire violations
