On March 11, 2025, India’s government introduced the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to overhaul the nation’s immigration system. The proposed legislation focuses on simplifying visa processes, strengthening compliance regulations, and improving security protocols for foreign nationals.
Key Proposals in the Bill:
The bill outlines several significant reforms, including the creation of a centralized authority responsible for managing all immigration-related issues. A new digital platform will be established to expedite immigration procedures, while state-level immigration centers will be set up to offer localized assistance.
In a bid to foster economic growth and attract global talent, the bill introduces six new types of visas designed to facilitate business travel, support foreign entrepreneurs, and streamline the hiring of international experts.
Another major provision mandates that foreign nationals staying in India for more than 180 days must register with the National Foreigners Registry. Additionally, educational institutions, hospitals, and companies will be required to report the presence of foreign nationals to the local Registration Officer.
Stricter Penalties for Noncompliance:
The bill also enforces stricter penalties for violations of its provisions, including a fine of ₹500,000 (approximately US$5,814) for employers who hire illegal workers.
Current Status:
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, is still under review in the legislative process and has not yet been passed into law.
This update was provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.
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