UK-India Trade Deal: Focus on Visa Simplification and Intra-Company Transfers

In a recent development, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, has provided clarity on India’s approach to visas within the UK-India trade deal. Contrary to some misconceptions, India is not pushing for an increase in visas.

Instead, it is championing the streamlining of intra-company transfers and the portability of pensions. This revelation comes as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak engages in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi.

No Demand for More Visas

During an interview with Times Radio, High Commissioner Doraiswami emphatically stated, “We are not seeking greater migration to the UK. In fact, we are a net beneficiary of migration, not a net source of migrants.”

He dispelled the misconception that India is advocating for additional visas, a notion that has frequently surfaced in UK media.

Simplifying Intra-Company Transfers

Addressing the importance of retaining talent in India, Doraiswami explained, “Our request revolves around simplifying the process for intra-company transfers.”

He underscored the necessity for both Indian and British companies to have a smoother mechanism for transferring their respective nationals between the two nations.

Doraiswami also stressed the significance of a robust free trade agreement encompassing services, simplified visas for specialists, and assurances for Indian students to gain work experience in the UK after completing their studies.

Portable Pensions for Indian Workers in the UK

Furthermore, India is seeking assurances that contributions made by Indian workers to pension funds in the UK can be repatriated to India upon their return, rather than being left behind.

This initiative aims to ensure that individuals can access their pension benefits accumulated during their stay in the UK.

UK’s Commitment to Reducing Net Migration

Responding to these clarifications, a spokesperson for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reiterated the UK’s commitment to lowering net migration. While negotiations for the free trade agreement are ongoing, there are no plans to modify immigration policies, including student visas.