UK PM Keir Starmer Rules Out Visa Deal With India
Ahead of his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Britain will not pursue a visa deal with India. Arriving in Mumbai on Wednesday with a large business delegation, Starmer clarified that visas are “not part of the plans,” stressing instead on leveraging the UK–India Free Trade Agreement signed earlier this year to enhance business and economic collaboration.
Speaking to journalists en route to India, Starmer said his visit aims to “take advantage of the free trade agreement” and strengthen business-to-business engagement. He noted that visa expansion for Indian tech professionals is not on the agenda, though the UK remains open to attracting “top talent” globally. His remarks come amid rising domestic pressure in Britain to reduce immigration levels.
Starmer Arrives in Mumbai to Warm Welcome
Upon arrival at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Starmer was welcomed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, and Governor Acharya Devvrat. During his flight, the Prime Minister addressed passengers, calling it “the biggest trade mission to India that the UK has ever sent,” and expressed optimism about deepening bilateral economic and innovation ties.
Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer will meet to review progress under the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Their discussions will align with the Vision 2035 roadmap and cover a range of sectors — from trade and defence to technology, climate, and education. The meeting aims to expand collaboration and reinforce India–UK ties as part of a long-term strategic cooperation framework.
Read more: PM Modi to Meet UK PM Keir Starmer in Mumbai
