UK opens its door by launching new visas open to Indian scientists, academics

London, July 7: The UK has launched new visas that will be open to overseas scientists and researchers, including Indians, to encourage the growth of the country's research sector.

 

UK immigration minister Caroline Nokes in a statement announcing the launch said, the UK is a world leader in research and innovation and these changes will make it easier for international researchers to work and train in the UK.

Nokes also added that “We must have an immigration system that makes sure we can attract leading international talent and benefit from their knowledge and expertise.”

The UK government said the new scheme demonstrates its commitment to make the UK a dynamic, open, globally-trading nation.

The new UKRI Science, Research, and Academia scheme opened from Friday for researchers, scientists and academics to come to the UK for up to two years.

The new scheme, which is being added to the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker - Government Authorised Exchange (GAE)) visa route, has been introduced to reflect and encourage the ongoing growth of the research sector in the UK.

The route allows individuals entering the UK through this scheme to stay for up to two years.

The UK has also decided to double the number of visas available on the Exceptional Talent route to 2,000 per year.