India-UK Trade Pact: A New Era for Professional Mobility

India and the United Kingdom have taken a significant step forward by agreeing to establish mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) following the implementation of their new trade deal. These agreements are vital for simplifying the movement of professionals, such as nurses, accountants, and architects, to the UK, an official announced.

The historic trade agreement, signed on Thursday, is projected for implementation within the year, after securing approval from the British Parliament. The pact has set a 36-month deadline for India and the UK to finalize MRAs in professional services, which are voluntary pacts recognizing licensing and qualification needs.

Under the trade accord, the UK grants a mobility regime for Indian professionals across various sectors without imposing numerical restrictions. In return, India has agreed to enhanced market access in professional, financial, and environmental services, preserving policy space in sensitive sectors.

(With inputs from agencies.)