UK gears up for AI supremacy with “AI Visas” and “Computing Zones”

The UK government is preparing to launch an ambitious Action Plan aimed at making the country a leading hub for artificial intelligence. The report, due for publication in November, was commissioned by the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, Peter Kyle. It includes proposals to streamline immigration for AI experts and create “computing zones” to boost data infrastructure.

AI visas to attract top talent

The Action Plan was developed by Matt Clifford, a well-known tech entrepreneur and advisor to the UK government, with a focus on reducing bureaucratic barriers to skilled immigration. In an environment where the cost and complexity of hiring international AI talent is high, Clifford’s plan aims to simplify the visa process, addressing a longstanding industry pain point.

This focus on high-skilled immigration aligns with recommendations made by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, who recently urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to expand AI-focused immigration policies. Schmidt argued that with many highly qualified AI graduates entering the workforce worldwide, the UK should aim to attract these specialists.

How this proposal will align with the Labour Party’s commitment to reducing immigration remains uncertain.

“Computing zones” for data infrastructure growth

The plan also proposes the creation of designated “computing zones,” areas within which it would be easier to construct data centers and related infrastructure, such as energy and communication networks.

This initiative builds on the UK government's broader strategy to prioritize data centers as critical national infrastructure, reducing regulatory hurdles and accelerating development.

However, access to power is a growing constraint for data center construction, as evidenced around London’s M4 corridor. The concentration of facilities in this area has led to power shortages and delays for other projects, including housing. David Mytton from the University of Oxford notes that a collaborative approach involving data center operators, regulators, and local authorities is essential to manage capacity effectively.

A Competitive Vision for AI in the UK

A spokesperson for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) shared that Clifford’s report is the first step in defining how the UK can build an AI sector that can scale and compete on the global stage. The ball is now in the government’s hand as it prepares to unveil its response.