Foreign law firms will now be able to practice in India, Bar Council issued rules

NationalDesk:
The Bar Council of India has issued rules for registration and regulation of foreign lawyers and foreign law firms in India.  Under the 'Bar Council of India Rules for Registration and Regulation of Foreign Lawyers and Foreign Law Firms in India, 2022', foreign law firms will now be allowed to practice law in India.
 “The time has come to take a decision on this issue.  The Bar Council of India believes that by opening up the practice of law in India to foreign lawyers in the field of foreign law practice, in India for the benefit of Indian lawyers in international legal issues in non-litigation matters and international arbitration matters  will help develop the legal profession/domain."
 The notification said that till date, the Law Council of India has been opposed to entry of foreign lawyers and legal firms in India in any form but after consideration by the Joint Advisors, Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen of the Council, it has been allowed.  Under the new rules, foreign lawyers and law firms will be required to register to practice in India.  This registration will be for a period of 5 years only and will have to be extended.