Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025: The Bill was recently introduced in the Lok Sabha to streamline immigration services, regulate entry, exit, and stay of foreigners, and replace outdated laws.
o Onus of Proof: The onus of proving citizenship lies on the individual, not the state.
o Stricter Penalties: Fake Passports (7 years jail + fine up to ₹10 lakh) → Forged Documents (5 years jail + fine up to ₹5 lakh) → Overstaying/Trespassing (3 years jail + fine up to ₹3 lakh) → Unauthorized Entry (Fine up to ₹5 lakh)
o Visa and Passport Regulations: No individual can enter India without a valid passport/visa & Foreigners must register on arrival.
o Immigration Officers’ Powers: Can arrest without warrant and regulate movement of foreigners & can restrict departure if required by an authorized agency.
o Foreigners’ Restrictions: Entry can be denied on national interest grounds & restrictions on name changes, movement, and access to protected areas.
o Institutional Obligations: Educational Institutions (Must register foreign students and report them) & Medical Institutions (Must maintain records of foreign nationals).
o Carriers’ Liability: Airlines, shipping companies, and transport agencies must verify passenger documents before boarding, and non-compliance invites legal penalties.