Is Keir Starmer Avoiding a Visa Deal as UK Seeks Stronger Ties with India?

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has firmly dismissed the prospect of a visa agreement with India as he embarks on a two-day visit to strengthen economic ties following a landmark trade deal signed earlier this year. Speaking to reporters en route to India on Wednesday, Starmer emphasized that the visit aims to capitalize on the free trade agreement (FTA) finalized in July 2025, set to take effect next year. The agreement, a milestone in UK-India relations, focuses on boosting bilateral trade, projected to reach £50 billion annually by 2030, without addressing visa policies.

Starmer’s visit, which includes a trade mission of UK businesses, underscores his commitment to deepening economic cooperation with India, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. He is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday to discuss further collaboration in sectors like technology, green energy, and manufacturing. The FTA, agreed upon in May after years of negotiations, faced delays in the past due to disagreements over visa access for Indian professionals. Starmer clarified that revisiting visa issues is “not part of the plans,” prioritizing the implementation of the existing trade deal instead.

The UK’s stance comes amid domestic pressures, with Starmer’s Labour government trailing the populist Reform UK party in polls. Public concern over immigration has prompted a restrictive approach, with Starmer rejecting visa concessions even for attracting tech talent from India. This follows recent U.S. policy changes, including President Donald Trump’s decision to increase H-1B visa fees, which has heightened global competition for skilled workers. Starmer noted that while he aims to attract “top talent” to Britain, visa policies will remain separate from trade discussions.

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On deportation and returns, Starmer described the issue as a “non-issue” with India, citing an existing bilateral agreement that facilitates the return of foreign nationals. However, he indicated a willingness to review such policies with other nations. The visit, Starmer’s first to India since taking office, signals a pragmatic focus on economic gains while navigating sensitive domestic and diplomatic priorities, setting the stage for a strengthened UK-India partnership.

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