UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed that the United Kingdom will not relax its visa rules for Indian nationals, despite strengthening trade and cultural relations through a new bilateral agreement.
Speaking ahead of his visit to India, Sir Keir highlighted the “massive opportunities” created by the recently signed UK-India trade deal, which aims to boost exports and investment between the two nations. However, he made it clear that visa policies remain unchanged, stating that “visas played no part in this trade agreement.”
The prime minister is leading one of the largest-ever UK business delegations to India, with over 100 entrepreneurs, cultural icons, and academic leaders. The mission’s goal is to encourage partnerships, attract investment, and revive the UK’s economic growth.
During his trip, Starmer said no Indian business leaders had raised visa issues, stressing that the visit’s focus was on helping companies benefit from the new trade framework. Under the deal, British exports such as cars and whisky will become cheaper in India, while Indian textiles and jewelry will enjoy reduced tariffs in the UK. It also includes a three-year exemption on social security contributions for short-term Indian workers in Britain.
Despite these economic advances, the Labour government continues to enforce stricter immigration policies, prioritizing reduced migration levels and tighter settlement pathways. Starmer reiterated that while the UK wants to attract global “top talent,” it has no plans to create new visa routes for India.
In a cultural boost linked to the trade deal, Starmer announced that Yash Raj Films, one of India’s biggest production houses, will shoot three new Bollywood films in the UK starting in 2026 — ending an eight-year pause in filming there. The move is expected to generate 3,000 jobs and inject millions into the British economy.
Yash Raj Films CEO Akshaye Widhani said the UK’s “infrastructure, technology, and talent” make it a creative hub, while actress Rani Mukerji joined Starmer for a film screening during his studio visit.
The trip also brought fresh connectivity announcements, with British Airways introducing a third daily Delhi–London flight, and Manchester Airport confirming a new direct route to Delhi.
During his stay, Sir Keir is also expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with discussions likely to cover trade, diplomacy, and the ongoing detention case of British Sikh Jagtar Singh Johal. Starmer confirmed that his government “always raises consular cases” when engaging with foreign leaders.
When asked about India’s purchase of Russian oil, Starmer avoided direct criticism, saying the UK’s priority remains tackling Russia’s shadow fleet — unregulated tankers used to bypass sanctions.
Starmer also clarified he would not follow Modi’s example of sending birthday greetings to Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “I haven’t sent congratulations, nor am I going to — I doubt that comes as a surprise.”
With the trade mission underway, Starmer emphasized that the UK-India relationship is stronger than ever, driven by economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and shared democratic values.
