India-UK FTA:

More Than Just Study Benefits – New Career Prospects Driven by Expanding Indian Businesses, Say Experts – Falguni Y Parekh of The SmartMove2UK

Thinking about studying in the UK? The new trade deal between India and the UK is making it even more appealing for Indian students.

Many people focus on the study benefits. Yes, the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) promises smoother visa procedures. It could potentially lower financial hurdles too. The deal also aims for mutual recognition of qualifications. This is especially helpful in fields like law, architecture, and accounting.

But experts say the benefits go much deeper. There is a “bevy of indirect but substantial benefits”. A big part of this is enhanced career prospects after graduation.

One major factor driving these new opportunities is the increasing presence of Indian companies in the UK.

According to Mrs. Falguni Y Parekh, a solicitor and the founder of The SmartMove2UK, a UK-focused immigration law firm, this is a significant trend. She states that since the FTA, her firm is seeing “strong interest from Indian companies exploring the possibility of expanding or setting up operations in the UK“.
This increased activity by Indian businesses is “creating a wave of new career opportunities for Indian students”, she said.

Why do these companies look for Indian graduates who studied in the UK? Mrs. Parekh explains they often prefer them because they have a “unique blend of market understanding and cultural alignment”. They are perfect for collaborating on initiatives between the two nations because of this mix.

Career aspirations are supported by many advantages in addition to the direct influence of Indian businesses. Improved post-study employment prospects in some fields are mentioned by experts. These include industries including professional services, education, IT, and finance. The FTA also helps with easier intra-company transfers. Expanded quotas and faster visa processing for Indian professionals could also help students move into full-time jobs more smoothly after finishing their studies.

Overall, experts feel the FTA helps create a more student- and professional-friendly environment. It encourages deeper links between universities. This could lead to more scholarships or joint degree programmes in the future.

So, the FTA does more than just make studying easier. It positions the UK not just as a place for world-class education, but also as a “launchpad for a global career” for Indian students.