Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 Becomes Law with Presidential Assent

Current Context: The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, signed into law on April 8, 2025, modernizes India's immigration framework by consolidating four outdated laws: the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920; the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939; the Foreigners Act, 1946; and the Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000.

Key Features:

• Bureau of Immigration: Establishes a centralized body to oversee visa issuance, entry, stay, and exit of foreigners.
• Stricter Penalties: Violations like using fake passports or overstaying visas can result in fines up to ₹10 lakh and imprisonment.
• Enhanced Monitoring: Hotels, universities, and hospitals must report details of foreigners to authorities.
• Streamlined Visa Processes: E-visas remain available for citizens of 167 countries, with visa-on-arrival options for Japan, South Korea, and UAE nationals.
• National Security Focus: Empowers authorities to restrict access to sensitive areas and enforce compliance.

Question:

Q.1 Under the new Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, what is the maximum penalty for violations such as overstaying or using a fake passport?
a) ₹1 lakh and 3 years imprisonment
b) ₹5 lakh and 5 years imprisonment
c) ₹10 lakh and imprisonment
d) ₹50,000 and deportation

Answer: c) The Bill imposes strict penalties, with fines up to ₹10 lakh and imprisonment for serious violations like using forged documents or overstaying a visa.