Indian Ministry of External Affairs Reports 1,080 Indians Deported from US Since January

Key Takeaways

• 1,080 Indians were deported from the US between January and May 2025.
• 62% returned on commercial flights; others used chartered or military planes.
• Student visa interviews paused and strict visa revocations increased under Trump administration.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs Confirms 1,080 Indians Deported from the United States Since January 2025

Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How

Since January 2025, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that 1,080 Indian nationals have been deported from the United States 🇺🇸. This figure, announced by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing on May 29, 2025, highlights the growing impact of stricter US immigration policies under the Trump administration. Of those deported, about 62% returned to India on commercial flights, while the rest arrived on chartered or military aircraft. The deportations are the result of closer cooperation between the two countries, with India agreeing to take back its nationals after verifying their identities, as required by international rules.

This development comes at a time when the United States 🇺🇸 has tightened its immigration regulations, including new restrictions on student and exchange visitor visas, and increased use of military aircraft for deportations. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the welfare of Indian nationals, especially students, remains a top priority.

Key Details and Recent Developments

• Total Indians Deported (Jan–May 2025): 1,080
• Mode of Return: 62% on commercial flights; the rest on chartered or military flights
• Notable Incident: On February 5, 2025, 104 Indians were deported on a US military plane, drawing criticism due to the use of shackles and the manner of deportation
• Pending Deportations: As of March 2025, US authorities had shared information on 295 more Indian nationals in custody with final orders of removal, awaiting verification by Indian authorities
• Estimated Undocumented Indians in US: 220,000 (2022 US Department of Homeland Security report)

Why Are Deportations Increasing?

The rise in deportations is linked to several factors:

• Stricter US Immigration Enforcement: The Trump administration has made it a priority to enforce immigration laws more strictly, especially against undocumented immigrants.
• Policy Changes: New rules have made it harder for people to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 without proper documents. There are also new restrictions on student and exchange visitor visas.
• Bilateral Cooperation: India and the United States 🇺🇸 have agreed to work closely on migration and deportation issues, with India accepting its nationals after verifying their identities.

How Does the Deportation Process Work?

The process of deporting Indian nationals from the United States 🇺🇸 involves several steps:

1. Identification: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) identifies Indian nationals who are in the country without legal status.
2. Final Order of Removal: These individuals are detained and given a final order of removal, which means they must leave the country.
3. Notification: US authorities share the details of these individuals with the Indian government.
4. Verification: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs and other agencies check to make sure each person is actually an Indian citizen.
5. Repatriation: Once verified, arrangements are made for the person to return to India—either on a commercial flight, a chartered flight, or, in some cases, a military aircraft.
6. Arrival and Assistance: When the deportees arrive in India, the government provides help as needed, following established rules.

Recent Policy Changes Affecting Indian Nationals

Student Visa Restrictions

The US State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has ordered embassies and consulates to pause new student and exchange visitor visa interviews. This pause is meant to give time for the US government to expand social media screening and background checks for visa applicants. As a result, many Indian students who planned to study in the United States 🇺🇸 may face delays or may not be able to get a visa at all.

Visa Revocations

The US government has also warned Indian students that their visas may be revoked if they drop out of school or skip classes without telling the authorities first. This means students must be careful to follow all the rules of their visa status.

Crackdown on Travel Agencies

On May 19, 2025, the US Department of State announced new visa restrictions on people working with Indian travel agencies that are found to be helping people enter the United States 🇺🇸 illegally. This move is aimed at stopping illegal immigration and punishing those who profit from it.

Official Statements and Stakeholder Perspectives

Indian Government’s Position

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has emphasized that India 🇮🇳 will take back its nationals only after verifying their identities. He stated, “The welfare of Indian students and nationals abroad is a top priority for the government.” Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh added that India has an obligation to accept its nationals found living illegally abroad, but only after proper checks. The government also provides assistance to returnees and is working to negotiate safer and more secure ways for people to move between countries.

US Government’s Position

The United States 🇺🇸, especially under the Trump administration, is focused on enforcing immigration laws and deterring illegal entry. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has ordered a halt to new student visa interviews and is pushing for more background checks, especially on social media.

Opposition and Civil Society in India

Some opposition leaders and civil society groups in India 🇮🇳 have criticized the government for not doing enough to protect the rights and dignity of deported Indians. They are especially concerned about the use of shackles and military planes during deportations, which they see as harsh and humiliating.

Practical Effects on Stakeholders

For Deported Individuals

Deportees must go through nationality verification before they can return to India 🇮🇳. The government provides some help, but many returnees report difficult experiences, including poor treatment during deportation. Some have described being shackled or treated roughly, especially on military flights.

For Indian Students

The new US policies may delay or even block student visa applications. This could affect thousands of Indian students who want to study in the United States 🇺🇸. Students must also be careful to follow all visa rules, or they risk having their visas canceled.

For Travel Agencies

Travel agencies that are found to be helping people enter the United States 🇺🇸 illegally now face visa restrictions. This could hurt their business and make it harder for clients to travel.

For Families

Families of deportees often face uncertainty and social stigma. Returnees may need help to adjust back to life in India 🇮🇳, and families may struggle with the emotional and financial impact.

Background: Why Are So Many Indians in the US Without Papers?

The number of undocumented Indians in the United States 🇺🇸 has grown in recent years. According to a 2022 report from the US Department of Homeland Security, there are about 220,000 undocumented Indians in the country, making them the third-largest group after Mexicans and Salvadorans.

Many Indians come to the United States 🇺🇸 in search of better economic opportunities or to join family members. Some overstay their visas, while others enter the country illegally with the help of travel agents or smugglers. The Indian government is currently investigating thousands of cases of suspected illegal entry into the United States 🇺🇸 between 2021 and 2024.

Controversial Deportation Flights

The use of military planes and shackles during deportations has sparked political debate in India 🇮🇳. On February 5, 2025, 104 Indians were deported on a US military plane. Many were reportedly shackled, which led to public outcry and criticism from opposition leaders. However, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that this was not new and had happened before.

Ongoing Investigations and Future Outlook

Indian authorities are still looking into thousands of cases of suspected illegal entry into the United States 🇺🇸. With hundreds more Indians in US custody and final orders of removal pending, the number of deportations is expected to rise in the coming months.

The Trump administration is also expected to continue its tough stance on immigration, with more background checks and a continued pause on student visa interviews. This could make it even harder for Indians to move to the United States 🇺🇸 legally.

What Happens After Deportation?

When deported Indians arrive back in India 🇮🇳, the government provides some help, such as temporary shelter and assistance with travel. However, many returnees face challenges, including:

• Social stigma: Some communities look down on people who have been deported.
• Financial hardship: Many returnees have spent large sums of money to try to settle in the United States 🇺🇸 and return home with little or nothing.
• Legal issues: Some may face legal action if they used fake documents or were involved in other illegal activities.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has said it is working to help returnees adjust and to negotiate better agreements with the United States 🇺🇸 for safer and more humane deportation processes.

Summary Table: Key Deportation Data (Jan–May 2025)

What Should Affected Individuals and Families Do?

If you or someone you know is affected by deportation from the United States 🇺🇸, here are some steps to take:

• Contact the Indian Ministry of External Affairs: The MEA provides assistance to Indian nationals abroad and can help with questions about deportation and repatriation. Visit the official MEA website for more information.
• Reach out to the nearest Indian embassy or consulate: They can provide support and guidance for Indian nationals in the United States 🇺🇸.
• Know your rights: If you are in the United States 🇺🇸 without proper documents, it is important to understand the risks and your legal options. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website offers information about the deportation process.
• Seek legal advice: If you are facing deportation, consult with a qualified immigration lawyer who can explain your options and help you navigate the process.

Official Resources

• Ministry of External Affairs, India: www.mea.gov.in
• US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): www.ice.gov

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for India-US Migration?

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the number of Indians being deported from the United States 🇺🇸 is likely to keep rising as US authorities continue to enforce immigration laws more strictly. The Trump administration’s focus on tighter border controls, more background checks, and restrictions on student visas means that legal migration routes may become even harder for Indians to access.

At the same time, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs is working to protect the rights of its nationals abroad and to negotiate better agreements with the United States 🇺🇸. The government is also trying to crack down on illegal immigration and human trafficking, while helping returnees adjust to life back in India 🇮🇳.

Actionable Takeaways

• For Indian nationals in the United States 🇺🇸: Stay informed about changing immigration rules. Make sure your documents are in order and follow all visa requirements.
• For students: Be aware of the new restrictions on student visas and the risk of visa revocation if you do not follow the rules.
• For families: If a loved one is deported, seek help from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs or your nearest embassy or consulate.
• For travel agencies: Avoid involvement in illegal immigration activities, as the US government is now imposing strict penalties.

Conclusion

The recent wave of deportations highlights the complex relationship between India 🇮🇳 and the United States 🇺🇸 on migration issues. With stricter US policies and ongoing investigations into illegal immigration, the situation remains challenging for many Indian nationals. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs continues to play a key role in supporting affected individuals and working toward more humane and fair migration policies. For the latest updates and official guidance, always refer to government sources and seek professional advice when needed.

Learn Today

Deportation → The official removal of a foreign national from a country due to legal or immigration violations.
Verification → The process of confirming an individual’s identity and citizenship before repatriation.
Final Order of Removal → A legal directive requiring an undocumented person to leave the United States.
Chartered Flight → A private or specially arranged aircraft used for deportation instead of commercial airlines.
Student Visa Revocation → Cancellation of a student’s visa due to failure to comply with immigration rules.

This Article in a Nutshell

Since January 2025, 1,080 Indians have been deported from the US amid tightened immigration enforcement. Most return on commercial flights. Student visa restrictions and visa revocations add to challenges. The Indian government prioritizes welfare and identity verification, while cooperation with the US aims to manage migration securely and fairly.
— By VisaVerge.com