Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025

Why in News?

Recently the, Government notifies changes in Immigration and Foreigners Rules, 2025.

The Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025 empowers the Central Government to regulate the immigration, entry, transit, residence, movement, and exit of foreigners in India.

Key Provisions

• Designated Immigration Posts – The Central Government may notify specific checkpoints for the entry and exit of foreigners.
• Establishment of the Bureau of Immigration – A Bureau of Immigration will oversee visa issuance and regulate the entry, transit, stay, and movement of foreigners.
• Mandatory Registration – Foreign nationals must register with a designated Registration Officer as prescribed.
• Information-Sharing Requirements – Carriers, educational institutions, and medical institutions must provide information about foreign passengers, students, and patients to authorities.
• Penalties for Violations – Entry without valid travel documents may attract imprisonment up to five years, a fine up to ₹5 lakh, or both.
• Authority to Arrest – Police officers of the rank of Head Constable or above may arrest offenders without a warrant.
• Regulation of Premises Frequented by Foreigners – Authorities may restrict foreigner access to, or close, premises frequently visited by them when necessary.

Recent Changes

• Registration relaxed – Foreigners holding visas valid for 180 days or less must register only if they plan to stay beyond the 180-day period.
• Earlier, registration was required within 14 days after completing 180 days in India.
• Relief for newborns – Parents no longer need to notify the Registration Officer within 30 days of a child’s birth if either parent is an Indian citizen and wants the child to retain Indian citizenship.
• If the child later acquires foreign citizenship while in India, the Registration Officer must be informed within 30 days.
• Updated reporting rules – The notification revises reporting and administrative requirements for hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical institutions providing treatment, accommodation, or lodging to foreigners.

Reference

The Hindu| Changes in Immigration and Foreigners Rules 2025

Click Here To Know More About Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025