United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer has ruled out any relaxation of visa restrictions for Indian nationals, reaffirming that immigration will not form part of the trade agenda between the two countries. Starmer, who arrived in India on Tuesday leading a delegation of over 100 business and cultural leaders, said his visit was focused on strengthening trade and investment partnerships rather than revising visa policies.
Trade and investment take centre stage
Addressing reporters ahead of formal meetings, Starmer said the UK government was committed to deepening commercial and cultural ties with India through the trade agreement signed in July. The pact seeks to make British goods such as cars and whisky more affordable in the Indian market while reducing tariffs on Indian textiles and jewellery exported to the UK.
“The partnership with India is essential for both our economies,” Starmer said. “We see huge potential in trade, innovation, and education. However, visas are not part of this deal — our focus is on business growth and job creation.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that Britain’s goal was to stimulate domestic economic growth by expanding export opportunities and attracting Indian investment into priority sectors such as green energy, technology, and manufacturing.
No change in immigration stance
While the trade pact includes a clause exempting Indian professionals on short-term work visas from paying UK social security contributions for three years, Starmer clarified that there would be no wider changes to the immigration framework.
“The agreement offers fair and practical benefits to businesses and professionals. But our immigration policy remains consistent with our domestic priorities,” he said.
The Labour government, which has pledged to bring down overall immigration numbers, recently introduced stricter rules for settlement and family reunification visas. Analysts say the party’s firm stance reflects growing domestic pressure to address migration levels, especially in the aftermath of Brexit and rising cost-of-living challenges in the UK.
India-UK trade deal details
Signed in July after several rounds of negotiations, the India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aims to boost bilateral trade — currently valued at over £36 billion annually — by removing high import duties and simplifying customs procedures.
Under the deal, UK exporters are expected to benefit from reduced tariffs on products like machinery, automotive components, and Scotch whisky. In turn, Indian businesses gain better access to the British market for pharmaceuticals, textiles, and jewellery.
Officials said that the FTA could add up to £3 billion a year to the UK economy and create thousands of jobs across both countries.
Labour’s domestic priorities
Starmer’s remarks underline the Labour government’s domestic political balancing act — promoting trade partnerships abroad while maintaining a firm grip on immigration at home. The Prime Minister has made clear that his administration’s focus will be on economic recovery and productivity, not on increasing migration.
When asked whether Britain might open new visa routes for Indian professionals, especially in technology and research sectors, Starmer said the UK would continue to attract global talent but would not introduce country-specific visa pathways.
“We are open to talent from across the world, including India, but our approach must be fair, managed, and beneficial for our economy,” he stated.
India’s response and outlook
While Indian officials have not commented formally on Starmer’s remarks, experts say that New Delhi has long sought greater mobility for Indian professionals as part of trade negotiations. However, both sides have agreed to treat migration and trade as separate tracks to avoid delays in concluding the FTA.
With Starmer’s visit expected to include meetings with top Indian business leaders and government representatives, discussions will likely focus on expanding investment, collaborations in renewable energy, and education partnerships rather than on migration reform.
Conclusion
Keir Starmer’s visit underscores the Labour government’s intent to strengthen economic and strategic ties with India while maintaining a restrictive stance on immigration. As the trade deal takes effect, both countries are expected to benefit from enhanced market access, even as mobility issues remain off the negotiating table.