The Indian government has introduced the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha, aiming to overhaul and streamline the country’s immigration framework. The bill, presented by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, seeks to replace existing colonial-era laws and introduce a structured mechanism to regulate the entry, stay, and exit of foreigners in India.
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However, opposition parties have strongly opposed the bill, claiming that it violates constitutional rights and may be used for political discrimination.
Key Features of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
1. Repealing Old Laws for a Unified Framework
The new bill aims to replace outdated laws, including:
- The Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
- The Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
- The Foreigners Act, 1946
- The Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000
By consolidating these laws, the government aims to create a simplified and efficient system for managing immigration.
2. Strict Regulations on Foreigners’ Stay and Movement
- Foreign nationals must register with the authorities upon arrival in India.
- Institutions such as universities, hospitals, and hotels must report the presence of foreigners.
- The bill grants immigration officers the power to arrest individuals without a warrant under specific conditions.
3. Stricter Visa and Entry Policies
The bill enhances visa regulations, ensuring that:
- E-visas will be granted under specific categories only.
- Visa-on-arrival will remain limited to Japan, South Korea, and the UAE (only for those who had prior e-visas or regular visas for India).
- Foreigners on long-term visas (student, employment, medical, research, and project visas) must register with FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival.
- Pakistani nationals must register within 24 hours of their arrival.
Opposition’s Objections: “A Tool for Political Targeting?”
The opposition, led by Congress MP Manish Tewari, has fiercely opposed the bill.
1. Violation of Fundamental Rights
- The bill allegedly violates multiple provisions of the Indian Constitution and may allow the government to deny entry to people based on political ideology.
- It gives immigration officers excessive power, which could lead to misuse and harassment.
2. Potential Impact on Foreign Talent & Economy
TMC MP Saugata Roy raised concerns that the bill could harm India’s economy and global standing by making it difficult for skilled professionals and researchers to enter India.
Government’s Justification: “A Step Towards National Security”
Minister Nityanand Rai defended the bill, stating:
- It is necessary to strengthen India’s borders and national security.
- The government has the constitutional right to regulate immigration under the Union List.
- The bill ensures that foreigners entering India follow all necessary protocols, preventing illegal immigration and potential threats.
Impact on Transport and Airlines: Carrier Liabilities Increased
One of the major provisions of the bill is the increased accountability of airlines and transport companies.
- Airlines and transport companies will be fined up to ₹5 lakh for allowing undocumented foreigners to enter India.
- Carriers must ensure proper documentation of all passengers before they board flights to India.
Legal and Policy Implications
- The bill provides a comprehensive legal framework for immigration.
- It introduces automated tracking systems to monitor the entry and exit of foreigners.
- Stronger biometric verification will be implemented to prevent identity fraud.
Comparison with Global Immigration Policies
The new Indian bill is similar to the US Immigration and Nationality Act and the UK Immigration Rules, both of which grant their governments broad authority over immigration policies and enforcement.
However, India’s bill differs by:
- Not offering an appeal process for denied entry.
- Not providing a refugee protection clause, unlike European Union policies.
Moving Forward: A Necessary Reform or a Controversial Move?
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 has sparked intense debate.
- The government argues that it will enhance national security and streamline immigration services.
- The opposition fears it could violate fundamental rights and lead to misuse of power.
As the bill moves forward for discussion, its long-term impact on India’s foreign relations, economy, and democracy will be closely watched.
By – Nikita
