India-UK Agreement on Social Security

India and the UK have signed an agreement to prevent double social security contributions for their nationals on short-term assignments in each other's countries.

Key Features of the Agreement

• This agreement is part of the bilateral trade deal and aligns with the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
• It aims to come into effect in the first half of 2026, alongside the CETA.
• The agreement applies to employees on assignments up to 36 months, supporting their mobility and social security coverage.

Objectives and Benefits

• The pact is expected to strengthen the India-UK partnership, particularly in the services sector.
• It leverages the highly skilled and innovative services sectors of both countries.

Signatories and Implementation

• Signed by India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, and UK High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron.
• India has been pursuing similar bilateral social security agreements (SSAs) to protect its professionals abroad.
• The agreement will be accessible on the websites of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation.

Background and Future Prospects

• Both governments committed to finalizing this social security agreement during the signing of the India-UK CETA in July 2025.
• Stakeholders will be able to obtain Certificates of Coverage (CoC) to avoid double contributions.