Connecting Skills, Creating Value: Strengthening Labour Mobility between UK and India
People-to-people connections are the cornerstone of the UK-India partnership, driving the exchange of ideas, skills, and cultural values that enrich both societies. The movement of students, professionals, and entrepreneurs between the UK and India strengthens bilateral ties. These connections build bridges between communities, fostering mutual respect and understanding, while also contributing to the economic and social fabric of both nations. Indian workers play a vital role in the UK economy and public services, making significant contributions across sectors such as IT, engineering, healthcare, and scientific research. From doctors, nurses, and care workers in the NHS to IT professionals driving innovation, their impact is substantial.
Additionally, in 2023, around 133,000 Indian students were granted study visas for the UK, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. This continued growth highlights the strong appeal of UK education for Indian students. Their contributions to the UK economy are substantial—through tuition fees, accommodation, and local spending. While recent estimates are pending, their economic impact is likely to remain close to the £10 billion mark, as in previous years. Beyond financial contributions, Indian students enrich the UK’s academic and cultural fabric, further strengthening the dynamic UK-India relationship.
The value of these interactions extends beyond individual experiences, creating networks that facilitate collaboration in business, academia, and innovation. This paper makes the case that two-way mobility delivers tangible benefits to both the UK and Indian economies and plays a vital role in the wider bilateral relationship
