India has launched a transformative approach to immigration management with the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, effective September 1, 2025. This comprehensive legislation consolidates four separate outdated laws into one unified framework, creating a more streamlined system for managing foreign nationals.
The new Act merges the Passport (Entry into India) Act 1920, Registration of Foreigners Act 1939, Foreigners Act 1946, and Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act 2000. This consolidation eliminates regulatory fragmentation and provides clearer operational guidelines.
Key enforcement improvements include mandatory registration within 14 calendar days of arrival at designated Registration Offices. Foreign nationals must comply with visa endorsement requirements or face enhanced penalties.
Employers now face increased scrutiny with authorized government inspections and audit visits. Companies must maintain detailed records of foreign employees and ensure compliance with registration deadlines to avoid fines and penalties.
Educational institutions, medical facilities, and accommodation providers have new reporting obligations. Universities must report foreign student enrollments within 24 hours, while medical institutions must track patient arrivals, departures, births, and deaths of foreign nationals. Hotels and accommodation providers must collect and electronically maintain guest details.
The Bureau of Immigration receives expanded authority to coordinate with state and local agencies on identification, detention, and deportation matters. Biometric data collection is now permitted at entry points and during stays.
A new Integrated Immigration Management System will replace the current Immigration, Visa and Foreigners’ Registration & Tracking system. This digital platform will connect airports, border checkpoints, and registration offices for real-time verification and enhanced security.
Penalties have been standardized with higher fines and potential imprisonment for violations, replacing the previous discretionary penalty structure.
My Insight:
This legislative overhaul represents a significant step forward for India’s immigration system. The consolidation of multiple outdated laws into a single, modern framework will greatly benefit both foreign nationals and employers by providing clearer guidelines and reducing bureaucratic complexity. The enhanced digital infrastructure and standardized penalties create a more predictable environment for international business operations. Organizations should proactively update their compliance procedures to align with these new requirements and take advantage of the improved operational efficiency this modernized system offers.