On 14th May 2025, the Bar Council of India (BCI) announced that it will allow foreign lawyers and law firms, including those from the UK, to establish offices in India, subject to a number of significant restrictions.
The change opens up a significant opportunity for UK solicitors working in India, as well as for UK law firms considering an India office.
What Has Changed In 2025?
The Bar Council of India’s updated 2025 regulations now allow foreign law firms and solicitors to offer non-litigious legal services, such as foreign law, international law and arbitration matters, particularly concerning cross-border transactions and international disputes in India. The press release issued by the BCI states:
“The amended regulations are strategically designed to provide structured opportunities for foreign lawyers to practice foreign law and international legal matters in India, strictly limited to non-litigious areas under a clearly defined regulatory framework that prioritises the rights and interests of Indian legal professionals”.
The new rules enable foreign Solicitors practising in English and Welsh law to register in India on the basis of reciprocity and:
- Open offices and provide legal advice on English, Welsh law and international law in non-contentious matters relating to foreign law and/or international law, and
- Represent and advise clients in international commercial arbitration or other dispute resolution processes in India, but only if the case involves foreign/international law or at least one party is based outside India.
It is important to note, however, that the regulatory changes issued by the BCI expressly prohibit foreign lawyers and law firms from engaging in litigation practice, appearing before Indian courts, or practising Indian law in any capacity. The purpose of this restriction is to protect the domestic litigation market for Indian lawyers while creating space for collaboration in cross-border matters.
Why Is This Change Significant For UK Law Firms?
India has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with increasing demand for cross-border investment, M&A, and arbitration services. The rule change allows UK firms to meet this demand directly within India.
The change permits several business structures to operate and establish an office in India, including:
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
- Companies
- Branches
- Subsidiaries
- Joint ventures with Indian firms
How To Register A Law Firm In India
To register with the BCI, you will need to:
- Register with the Bar Council of India as a foreign lawyer or law firm
- Provide the necessary documents from the SRA, including:
- Letter of regulatory standing confirming that the solicitor or firm is recognised and regulated in the UK.
- Letter of reciprocity confirming that UK rules permit Indian lawyers to practise in the UK under similar terms, meeting the BCI’s reciprocity condition.
- Certificate of good standing – required for each solicitor intending to register, verifying their compliance history and disciplinary record.
Key Considerations For UK-Based Law Firms Operating In India
Operating abroad comes with dual regulatory obligations. Firms should check how the SRA Overseas and Cross-border Practice Rules may apply to UK firms establishing an Indian office. These state, “authorised firms are required to ensure that those overseas practices for which they are responsible, and those who manage and own those overseas practices, meet the principles and standards set out in Part A of these rules”.
The change in policy means that UK law firms now have a chance to expand their international presence by opening a UK law firm office in India.
Before considering law firm registration in India, it is advisable to review the SRA’s guidance on cross-border practice, the process for obtaining letters of standing and reciprocity and the practical advice on international expansion published by the Law Society. It may also be necessary to conduct feasibility studies, consult with local advisors in India, and develop compliance frameworks that align with both jurisdictions.
Final Words
The Bar Council of India’s 2025 reforms mean that, for the first time, UK Solicitors and law firms can establish offices in India, advise clients directly, and participate in international arbitration within the country.
If your firm is considering establishing an India office, it should seek guidance from the SRA, The Law Society, and regulatory specialists to ensure a smooth and compliant entry into one of the world’s largest and growing legal markets.
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