UK AI Plan Proposes Easier Visas and New Zones to Boost Data Centres

Key Insights:

• New “computing zones” could make building data centres easier, boosting the UK’s digital infrastructure.
• Proposed visa reforms aim to simplify hiring AI experts, addressing bureaucracy and high costs.
• An AI Opportunities Unit will drive recommendations, aligning with the UK’s growth-focused AI strategy.

A forthcoming report, the “AI Opportunities Action Plan,” is set to recommend measures to enhance the UK’s appeal as a hub for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. Commissioned by Science and Tech Secretary Peter Kyle, the report was developed by venture capitalist Matt Clifford and submitted to the government last month. It is scheduled for public release in November.

The action plan contains multiple recommendations aimed at supporting AI development and adoption across the UK. Proposed steps include simplifying the visa process for foreign AI specialists and creating designated “computing zones” to facilitate data centre construction.

Visa Reforms for AI Specialists

The report emphasizes the need to reduce the cost and complexity of obtaining UK visas for individuals with AI expertise. During consultations with industry leaders between July and September, Clifford found that visa-related bureaucracy and expenses were major challenges for AI companies looking to hire international talent. Improving the current visa system is among the central suggestions outlined in the plan, according to sources familiar with its content.

Currently, the Global Talent Visa is the primary route for tech and AI professionals entering the UK. However, an assessment of the scheme revealed that a third of applicants faced longer-than-expected processing times. The existing process requires candidates to secure endorsements from recognized UK bodies before submitting applications, with endorsement fees set at £520. 

Additional costs include application fees, an annual immigration health surcharge of £625, and further charges for dependents. “We need to make it easier and more affordable to bring in global talent,” a source briefed on the action plan said.

While the proposal aims to boost the AI sector, it may face resistance from the Home Office. The government has expressed a broader goal to reduce net migration, which could complicate efforts to streamline the visa process. There are concerns that simpler visa rules for AI experts could be seen as undermining initiatives to develop domestic skills.

Proposed “Computing Zones” for Data Centres

The report also suggests creating “computing zones” to facilitate the development of data centres. These designated areas would simplify processes for building data centres and related infrastructure, including energy supply systems. This proposal aligns with Kyle’s broader efforts to enhance data infrastructure across the UK.

Data centres have been classified as “critical national infrastructure” by the government, ensuring them support in case of cyberattacks or other disruptions. The action plan aims to make land, particularly lower-quality greenbelt areas, more available for data centre construction. 

However, industry executives have noted that high energy costs and inconsistent availability remain significant hurdles for new projects. “The cost and availability of energy are major concerns for the expansion of data centres,” an industry executive told the Financial Times.

Government to Establish AI Opportunities Unit

As part of the plan’s implementation, Kyle is expected to launch an “AI Opportunities Unit” dedicated to advancing the report’s recommendations. This unit will work to address the identified barriers to growth and promote AI adoption across sectors.

The government has not yet finalized the AI action plan, and its response could lead to adjustments in Clifford’s recommendations. A government spokesperson commented, “Matt Clifford’s AI Opportunities Action Plan will present an ambitious vision for using AI to drive economic growth. We will outline our response in due course.”

This action plan is part of the UK government’s broader strategy to integrate AI into the economy and boost productivity. Secretary Kyle has argued that widespread AI adoption could increase UK productivity by 5%. He has made AI a key focus of the government’s growth agenda, aiming to position the UK as a global leader in AI development.

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