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On March 11, 2025, the Union government introduced the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to modernise and consolidate India's immigration framework by replacing four existing laws:
The new legislation aims to eliminate redundancy and overlap in existing laws, aligning with India's policy of simplifying legal frameworks. Once enacted, the law will grant the central government comprehensive powers to regulate foreigner-related matters, including passport requirements, visa policies, and registration procedures to address modern security challenges.
The bill establishes a specialised Bureau of Immigration headed by a Commissioner with Regional Registration Officers and Immigration Officers to regulate entry/exit of foreigners and perform other functions prescribed by the Central Government.
Grants broader authority to bar foreigners based on national security concerns, regulate movements, order them to remain in or leave specified areas, and authorise warrantless arrests for immigration violations.
Mandates biometric registration and restricts entry to designated checkpoints. Foreigners must provide proof of identity, undergo medical examinations if required, and report any changes in personal details to authorities.
Introduces severe punishments including up to 7 years imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 lakh for document fraud, 5 years and ₹5 lakh for illegal entry, and 3 years and ₹3 lakh for visa overstays and other violations.
Places legal responsibilities on universities, medical institutions, and private residence owners to furnish information about foreigners using their facilities, including mandatory Form C submission to the FRRO for tracking and verification.
Requires carriers (air, water, land transporters) to share passenger information upon request, handle removal of denied-entry foreigners, and face penalties up to ₹50,000 for non-compliance with these provisions.