UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has clearly stated that there will be no increase in visa opportunities for highly skilled Indian workers, despite pressure from business leaders. Speaking on his way to Mumbai to promote the UK-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed in July, Starmer insisted that easing immigration rules “isn’t part of the plans.”
The Prime Minister, accompanied by a delegation of 125 business and cultural leaders, downplayed the importance of visas in the relationship between the two countries. “The visa situation hasn’t changed with the free trade agreement. We didn’t open up more visas,” Starmer said. “The issue is not about visas; it’s about business-to-business engagement, investment, and jobs and prosperity coming into the United Kingdom.”
The FTA did not create any new visa pathways but confirmed existing measures for temporary business travel. Starmer noted that this helped “un-block” trade talks that had previously stalled over India’s requests for more visa access.
Starmer’s firm position is due to growing domestic pressure to limit immigration, especially as the anti-migrant Reform UK party gains support in polls. To address concerns, the government is considering changes to settlement rules. This could involve extending the residency period for indefinite leave to remain and linking the status to a person’s “contribution” to the UK. Business leaders, including those from the Confederation of British Industry and Standard Chartered, have warned that these policies might worsen labor shortages and drive away talent.
When asked about attracting top global talent, particularly given the higher US visa costs, Starmer expressed a desire for “top talent in the United Kingdom” but did not provide details on specific recruitment plans. He also dismissed worries about wealthy individuals leaving after Labour cut some “non-dom” tax breaks, arguing that the change is generating “considerable revenue… to fix things” like the NHS.
Finally, regarding concerns about foreign criminals, Starmer confirmed that the government is “looking at whether there should be a link between visas and returns agreements.” However, he pointed out that this is “not an issue with India” because there is an existing, effective returns agreement in place.
