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India’s legal landscape is set for a significant transformation following the Bar Council of India’s (BCI) recent decision to allow foreign lawyers and law firms to practise foreign law in India. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan R Gavai has hailed the move as a “crucial step” towards integrating global best practices and strengthening India’s position as an international arbitration hub.
Speaking at the 3rd International Conference on ‘Arbitrating Indo-UK Commercial Disputes’ in London on Thursday, CJI Gavai said, “The decision of the Bar Council of India will provide a pathway to introduce global best practices in the Indian arbitration ecosystem, which will be effective in increasing the overall quality of arbitration in India.”
The BCI’s notification, issued on May 14, 2025, formalises rules for the registration and regulation of foreign lawyers and law firms. Under the new framework, foreign lawyers can practise only non-litigious matters involving foreign law, international law, and arbitration—especially in cross-border and commercial disputes. They are permitted to participate in international commercial arbitration in India, provided such cases involve foreign or international law.
Previously, foreign lawyers were largely barred from practising in India, except through limited “fly-in, fly-out” provisions. The new rules, however, mark a shift towards a more open and competitive legal market while safeguarding the interests of Indian legal professionals.
CJI Gavai emphasised that India’s aspirations to become a preferred venue for international arbitration require robust legal infrastructure and access to high-quality, independent, and impartial arbitrators. He highlighted the growth of home-grown arbitration centres like the Delhi International Arbitration Centre and Mumbai Centre for International Arbitration, as well as the government’s efforts to establish the India International Arbitration Centre in New Delhi.
The BCI’s move is seen as part of India’s broader strategy to modernise its legal services sector. The new rules also introduce reciprocity, allowing Indian lawyers to register as foreign legal consultants abroad without relinquishing their rights to practise in India.
