Introduction
The Lok Sabha has passed the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, aiming to regulate the entry, stay, and exit of foreigners in India. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that while India welcomes individuals visiting for tourism, education, healthcare, and business, the country is not a ‘dharamshala’ (charitable shelter) and will take stringent measures against those posing security threats. India Today+1PRS Legislative Research+1India Today+1The Economic Times+1
Key Provisions of the Act
The Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 introduces several significant measures:
- Consolidation of Laws: The Act replaces four pre-independence era laws—the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920; the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939; the Foreigners Act, 1946; and the Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000—creating a unified legal framework for immigration. Lexology+2India Briefing+2PRS Legislative Research+2
- Structured Visa System: A streamlined visa regime categorizes visas based on the purpose and duration of stay, including tourist, business, employment, student, medical, research, religious, journalist, refugee/asylum, and transit visas. It also outlines terms for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders. India Today
- Mandatory Reporting: Educational institutions and other organizations admitting foreign nationals must report relevant information to designated Registration Officers, enhancing monitoring and compliance. India Briefing
- Enhanced Penalties: The Act imposes stricter penalties for violations such as using fake passports, overstaying visas, and unauthorized entry, aiming to deter illegal immigration and ensure adherence to legal protocols. Lexology
Government’s Stance on National Security
During the parliamentary debate, Home Minister Amit Shah underscored the government’s commitment to national security, stating that individuals with malicious intentions will be prevented from entering India. He reiterated that the nation welcomes those contributing to its development but will not tolerate activities that threaten its security. The Economic Times+1India Today+1
Conclusion
The Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 represents a significant overhaul of India’s immigration laws, aiming to balance openness to genuine visitors with stringent measures against illegal entry and activities detrimental to national security.
