Stricter Immigration Rules Coming: Modi Govt’s New Bill Proposes Rs 10 Lakh Fine for Fake Passports

Stricter Immigration Rules Coming: Modi Govt’s New Bill Proposes Rs 10 Lakh Fine for Fake Passports

Introduction: Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025

The Modi government is set to introduce The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the ongoing Budget session of Parliament. The bill, to be presented by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, aims to replace multiple outdated laws and introduce stricter regulations regarding foreign nationals, passports, visas, and national security.

Key Provisions of the New Bill

1. Heavy Penalties for Unauthorized Entry & Fake Passports

• Foreigners entering India without authorization may face a penalty of up to ₹5 lakh.
• Use of fake or fraudulently obtained passports could result in a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
• Overstaying beyond visa duration could lead to three years' imprisonment and a fine up to ₹3 lakh.

2. Replacement of Outdated Laws

The new Bill will repeal and replace the following laws:
✅ Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
✅ Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
✅ Foreigners Act, 1946
✅ Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000

These laws were originally enacted during World War I & II and have overlapping provisions. The new legislation seeks to consolidate and modernize immigration laws to prevent security threats.

3. National Security as a Ground for Denial of Entry

For the first time, the bill explicitly mentions national security and sovereignty as valid reasons to deny entry or stay to a foreign national. It also allows refusal based on India’s diplomatic relations with foreign states.

4. Final Authority to Immigration Officers

• The bill may grant Immigration Officers the final and binding authority in matters of entry, stay, and deportation.
• This eliminates legal loopholes that previously allowed foreigners to challenge immigration decisions.

5. Regulation of Universities & Medical Institutions

The proposed legislation will define the responsibilities of universities, educational institutions, and hospitals in admitting foreign nationals.

• Institutions may be required to verify visas and documentation before enrolling foreign students or patients.

6. Increased Punishments for Violations

• Entering India without a passport or travel document could lead to five years' imprisonment or a fine up to ₹5 lakh.
• Forged passports or travel documents may attract 2 to 7 years of imprisonment and fines between ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh.

Why This Bill is Necessary?

Currently, immigration in India is governed by multiple old and overlapping laws. The need for a comprehensive legal framework was felt to:
✅ Streamline entry, stay, and deportation rules
✅ Strengthen border security and national interests
✅ Define clear penalties and punishments for violations
✅ Provide legal backing to the Bureau of Immigration

Potential Impact of the New Law

• Stronger control over illegal immigration
• Reduced instances of fake passports and unauthorized entries
• Increased accountability for educational and medical institutions admitting foreigners
• Greater power to Immigration Officers to prevent security threats

Conclusion

The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 marks a major shift in India's immigration laws by prioritizing national security, stricter penalties, and streamlined regulations. Once passed, it will modernize India’s immigration framework while ensuring better enforcement and legal clarity.

💬 What are your thoughts on these new immigration rules? Should penalties be stricter or more lenient? Share your views below! 👇