Context:
The Central government is set to introduce the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, aimed at modernizing India’s immigration framework. This new legislation will replace outdated laws governing the entry, movement, and regulation of foreign nationals in India.
Replacing Outdated Laws:
The Bill will consolidate and replace several pre-independence and outdated laws, including:
- Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
- Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
- Foreigners Act, 1946
- Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000
These laws were enacted during the World Wars and are no longer suited to present-day immigration challenges.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
1. Stricter Penalties for Violations:
- Unauthorized Entry: Foreign nationals entering India without authorization will face a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.
- Fake Passport Use: Those using forged passports will face a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
2. Institutional Role in Immigration: Universities, hospitals, and other institutions will have defined responsibilities while admitting foreign nationals to ensure compliance with immigration rules.
3. Regulation of Foreigners in India: Foreigners’ registration, movement, and restrictions will be clearly outlined.
- Civil authorities will be empowered to regulate places frequently visited by foreigners for better monitoring.
4. Liability of Carriers (Airlines & Ships): Airlines and shipping companies will be held responsible for transporting foreign nationals who do not comply with Indian immigration laws.
5. Removal of Foreigners: The central government will have the power to remove foreign nationals violating immigration laws or facing movement restrictions.
6. Modernized Immigration Procedures: The Bill aims to streamline passport and visa procedures, making immigration more structured and efficient.
Implications of the Bill:
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 is a major step towards modernizing India’s immigration framework, ensuring:
· Better control over foreign nationals regarding their movement, entry, and stay.
· Defined responsibilities for universities and hospitals dealing with foreign nationals.
· Stronger enforcement with stricter penalties for unauthorized entry and fake documents.
· Alignment with global immigration standards in an increasingly interconnected world.
Conclusion:
By consolidating multiple outdated laws into a single, comprehensive framework, this Bill enhances security, regulation, and efficiency in India’s immigration system. It reinforces India's commitment to stronger border control, better institutional accountability, and a globally competitive immigration policy.
