Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Centre is preparing to introduce the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 during the budget session to address immigration and visa-related issues.
Objectives
- Streamlining and codifying various provisions related to immigration and visa issues.
- Updating the process with input from stakeholders, guided by the home ministry.
Best Practices
- The Bureau of Immigration has reviewed best practices from countries like the US and UK.
Temporary Landing Permit
- Currently, a maximum of three days is allowed for temporary landing permits.
- Potential relaxation to include medical emergencies, currently handled case-by-case.
Nationals Excluded from Permit
- Nationals of certain countries such as Afghanistan, China, Ethiopia, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka are not eligible.
- Foreign nationals of Pakistan origin are also excluded.
- Exceptions exist for Bangladesh and China according to bilateral agreements and policy guidelines.
Existing Laws
- Three pre-Independence laws currently govern the entry, stay, and exit of foreigners:
- Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
- Foreigners Act, 1946
- The Indian Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
Future Considerations
- Addressing changing immigration dynamics and foreigner entry.
- Regulating India's porous borders.
