India-UK Agreement on Social Security
India and the United Kingdom (UK) have signed an Agreement on Social Security to address social security contributions for employees on temporary assignments in each other's territories.
Key Features of the Agreement
- The agreement aims to prevent double social security contributions for employees from both countries.
- It covers temporary assignments for periods up to 36 months.
- This agreement supports the mobility of employees while ensuring continued social security coverage.
- It is designed to enhance partnerships, particularly in the services sector, by leveraging the skills and innovation of both nations.
Implementation and Signatories
- The agreement was signed by Foreign Secretary of India and British High Commissioner to India
- It will take effect with the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), scheduled for the first half of the current year.
Context and Benefits
- The agreement aligns with India's strategy of entering bilateral social security agreements to protect Indian professionals and skilled workers abroad.
- This initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of Indian companies operating internationally.
- The agreement and related details will be accessible on the websites of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation.
- It enables stakeholders to secure certificates of coverage, thereby avoiding dual social security contributions.
