The Lok Sabha passed the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, on Thursday, aiming to enhance India’s internal security by keeping detailed records of all foreign visitors. Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that this legislation will provide real-time updates on foreigners entering the country.
Introduced by the Union Home Ministry, the bill offers a structured framework to manage immigration and regulate foreign nationals in India.
During the debate, Amit Shah stated that India welcomes individuals coming for business, education, and investment, but strict action will be taken against those posing security threats. He also reaffirmed that India is not a “Dharamshala” (free shelter for all).
Lok Sabha Passes Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025
The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizing that India welcomes foreign visitors for tourism, education, healthcare, and business but will take strict action against those who pose security threats.
Speaking during the debate, Shah clarified that the Narendra Modi-led government would only prevent individuals with malafide intentions from entering India. He reiterated that the country is not a “Dharamshala” (shelter home) and that national security remains a top priority.
The proposed legislation aims to enhance national security, boost the economy, and support the health and education sectors. Shah highlighted that the bill would ensure real-time tracking of foreigners entering India, strengthening immigration policies.
Addressing concerns about illegal infiltration by Rohingyas from Myanmar and Bangladeshis, he warned that such activities had increased and posed security risks. He assured strict action against infiltrators attempting to create unrest in India.
Shah also stated that the bill aligns with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of all foreign visitors. He reaffirmed that genuine travelers would always be welcome, but those threatening national security would face strong scrutiny and action.
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Amit Shah Slams Trinamool Congress Over Infiltration Issue
Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the Trinamool Congress-led West Bengal government of failing to curb illegal infiltration along the India-Bangladesh border. He stated that 450 km of border fencing remains incomplete due to the state government’s reluctance to provide land.
Shah alleged that TMC workers obstruct fencing efforts through hooliganism and religious sloganeering, delaying crucial security measures. He pointed out that out of 2,200 km of the India-Bangladesh land border, only 450 km remains unfenced, but the West Bengal government is not cooperating.
The Home Minister revealed that the central government has written 11 letters and held seven rounds of discussions with state officials, yet the issue remains unresolved. He also claimed that illegal immigrants are being provided Aadhaar cards, particularly in South 24 Parganas, and are spreading across the country.
Shah assured that if the BJP forms the government in West Bengal next year, the remaining border areas will be secured with fencing to prevent further infiltration.
What Does the Immigration Bill 2025 Propose?
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 introduces stricter regulations to prevent illegal entry and overstaying in India. Under the proposed law, individuals found using fake passports or visas to enter, stay, or exit the country could face up to seven years in jail and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
Additionally, the bill mandates hotels, universities, educational institutions, hospitals, and nursing homes to report information about foreign nationals. This will help authorities track those who overstay their visas.
The legislation also states that any foreigner entering India without a valid passport or visa will be subject to imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to ₹5 lakh, or both.
Currently, immigration and foreigner-related matters are governed by four separate laws:
- Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
- Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
- Foreigners Act, 1946
- Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000
The new bill aims to replace all these laws, streamlining the legal framework for immigration and foreigner management in India.
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FAQs
Q.1. What is the purpose of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025?
Ans. The bill aims to regulate immigration, enhance national security, and track foreign visitors in real-time while streamlining existing laws.
Q.2. What are the penalties for using fake passports or visas under the new bill?
Ans. Individuals using forged documents to enter, stay, or exit India may face up to seven years in jail and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
Q.3. How does the bill address illegal infiltration in India?
Ans. The bill introduces stricter regulations and penalties to curb illegal immigration, with a focus on border security and real-time tracking of foreigners.
Q.4. Which existing laws will the Immigration and Foreigners Bill 2025 replace?
Ans. It will replace the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, the Foreigners Act, 1946, and the Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000.
Q.5. What action will be taken against foreigners overstaying their visas?
Ans. Hotels, universities, and hospitals must report overstaying foreigners, who may face imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.
