India-UK Agreement: On February 10, 2026, India and the United Kingdom signed a crucial agreement in New Delhi aimed at eliminating double social security payments for employees on short-term assignments. This pact, signed by India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron, is a significant component of the India-UK free trade pact finalized in July 2025.
Details of the Social Security Pact
The agreement addresses the long-standing issue of double social security contributions for nationals on temporary assignments, allowing them to work across borders for up to 36 months without incurring additional costs. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs highlighted this as a move to enhance partnerships in the service sector, leveraging the high skills and innovation of both countries.
This agreement is part of the broader Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which is set to take effect in the first half of 2026. It is expected to benefit approximately 75,000 workers and over 900 companies, resulting in savings of more than ₹4,000 crore. Similar agreements have been made by India with over 20 countries, including Australia, Canada, and Germany, to protect Indian professionals working abroad.
The agreement will be available on the websites of the Ministry of External Affairs and the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), where stakeholders can obtain Certificates of Coverage to avoid dual contributions. This initiative is poised to strengthen the service sectors of both nations and is a testament to the growing India-UK economic relationship.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 11th, 2026
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