von der Leyen announced that the EU and India signed a "mobility agreement" to promote the "movement of students, researchers, seasonal workers, and high-skilled workers," and launched the "first EU Legal Channel Office" in India to support the flow of Indian talent to Europe.
According to the agreement signed between the EU and India at the beginning of January 2026, both sides indeed established a new "mobility" cooperation framework and set up the first "EU Legal Channel Office" in India. This is not only a simplification of visa procedures, but also a comprehensive "one-stop" support system aimed at systematically attracting Indian talent.
The EU-India mobility cooperation framework mainly targets the groups of students, researchers, seasonal workers, and high-skilled professionals.
As a one-stop information and support center, it provides guidance on studying, working, and living in the EU, and connects to the European job market.
This agreement was reached against a key background, mainly driven by European demand and changes in the global landscape:
Europe faces a declining population and labor shortages in specific fields, requiring the attraction of foreign talent.
The uncertainty of US trade and immigration policies (such as increased tariffs and tightened H-1B visa rules) has prompted India and the EU to seek closer cooperation, making Europe a new option for Indian talents.
This "mobility agreement" is much more than just visa facilitation. It is essentially a formal channel established by the EU to systematically attract Indian talent and address its own labor market challenges. At the same time, it is also an diplomatic achievement for India to find opportunities globally and diversify risks. The final effect of the agreement will depend on the implementation of subsequent specific policies and the actual opportunities provided by European companies and institutions.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1855491949235200/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.