Key Takeaways
• Since January 2025, the US deported 1,080 Indian nationals under stricter Trump-era immigration policies.
• 62% of deportees returned on commercial flights; February saw 104 Indians deported via military plane.
• New rules include fast-track deportations, visa bans on travel agents, and tougher student visa checks.
As of July 2025, the United States 🇺🇸 has deported 1,080 Indian nationals, marking a sharp rise in removals since President Trump returned to office. This surge follows new US immigration policies, stricter visa rules, and closer cooperation between the US and India 🇮🇳. The trend has sparked debate in both countries, with families, students, and advocacy groups raising concerns about fairness and humane treatment.
Deportation numbers are climbing fast. According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), 1,080 Indians have been deported from the US 🇺🇸 since January 2025, with about 62% sent home on commercial flights. By mid-March, 388 had already been removed, including 333 directly from the US and 55 via Panama. In a move that drew strong criticism in India 🇮🇳, the US used a military plane to deport 104 Indians in February. This method, rarely used in the past, raised questions about the treatment of deportees and the message it sends to both countries.
The pace of deportations is picking up. During President Trump’s first term (2017–2021), the US deported 6,135 Indians. The current rate in 2025 suggests that removals could surpass previous years if the trend continues. Many of those deported come from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, regions known for high rates of migration and the use of irregular routes to reach the US.
Why Are More Indians Being Deported?
Several recent policy changes explain the increase:
- Expedited Deportations: In June 2025, the US Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to restart fast-track deportations for migrants, including Indians, to countries that agree to accept them. This means less time for appeals and fewer chances to stay in the US.
- Visa Restrictions on Travel Agents: In May, the US State Department imposed visa bans on Indian travel agency owners and executives who help people migrate illegally. This rule, under section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, applies worldwide—even to those who would normally qualify for easy travel under the Visa Waiver Program.
- Tougher Student Visa Rules: The Trump administration has ordered US embassies to stop new interviews for student visa applicants (F, M, and J visas) until they can expand social media checks. This makes it harder for Indian students to get visas and has left many in limbo.
- Diplomatic Cooperation: The Indian government has agreed to accept verified Indian nationals deported from the US. Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed this policy in February 2025, saying India 🇮🇳 would work with the US to ensure proper identification and return.
What Happens During Deportation?
The process for Indians deported from the US 🇺🇸 usually follows these steps:
- Identification: US authorities find Indian nationals who do not have legal status or who have broken visa rules.
- Verification: The Indian government checks if the person is truly an Indian citizen.
- Coordination: US and Indian officials work together to arrange flights and paperwork.
- Return: Most deportees fly home on commercial airlines, but some are sent on charter or military flights, especially in large or high-profile cases.
- After Arrival: Indian authorities process returnees. In some cases, state agencies help with reintegration or investigate if the person entered the US illegally or committed crimes.
Treatment during deportation has become a major issue. Reports say that some Indians deported from the US have been handcuffed and chained during flights. This has led to strong criticism from Indian politicians and migrant rights groups, who call for more humane treatment and better transparency.
Who Is Most Affected?
- Irregular Migrants: Many Indians deported from the US tried to enter the country without proper documents. In 2023, nearly 97,000 Indians were stopped at US borders, with about 90,000 in 2024. Most come from northern India and use complex routes through several countries.
- Students: Indian students in the US face increased scrutiny. Some have quit part-time jobs or left the country after minor rule violations, fearing deportation. The new visa rules and social media checks have made it harder for students to plan their studies.
- Families: Deportations often break up families, leaving spouses and children in difficult situations. Some families in India 🇮🇳 have reported not knowing where their loved ones are or how to help them.
What Do Officials and Advocacy Groups Say?
Indian Government: The MEA says it works closely with the US to protect Indian nationals abroad. Officials promise to keep an eye on new rules affecting students and migrants and to help those who are deported.
US Government: Secretary of State Marco Rubio has led efforts to tighten visa checks and speed up deportations. The US has signed agreements with India 🇮🇳 and other countries to make sure deportees are accepted quickly.
Opposition and Advocacy Groups: Indian opposition parties and migrant rights groups have criticized the use of military flights and the way deportees are treated. They demand more transparency and better protection for Indian citizens.
How Are Deportations Carried Out?
Flights: Since January 2025, there have been over 350 deportation flights, including both charter and military planes. The use of military aircraft stopped in March because it was too expensive and not efficient. According to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), charter flights cost about $8,577 per hour, while “special high-risk” flights can cost up to $27,000 per hour.
Costs: These high costs have led to questions about whether mass deportations are the best use of resources. Some experts say that focusing on voluntary returns or legal pathways could save money and reduce hardship.
State-wise Impact: Most Indians deported from the US come from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat. These states have a long history of migration, and many families borrow large sums to pay agents who promise to get them to the US.
Public Opinion and Political Outlook
US Public Sentiment: Support for mass deportations in the US has dropped in 2025. Only 38% of Americans now favor deporting all undocumented immigrants, down from 47% in 2024. At the same time, 78% support giving undocumented immigrants a chance to become citizens.
Policy Direction: President Trump’s administration has promised to keep up large-scale deportations, but the actual numbers are lower than during President Biden’s term. Experts say this is partly because fewer people are trying to cross the border now.
Future Changes: The US is expected to announce more rules on student visa checks and may expand social media screening for all visa applicants soon. This could make it even harder for Indians to get US visas.
Why Are So Many Indians Trying to Migrate?
Push Factors: Many Indians leave for the US because of unemployment, lack of opportunities, and political problems at home. According to the Migration Policy Institute, most Indian immigrants are highly skilled, but there is a growing number of irregular migrants from northern India.
Irregular Routes: Some migrants use dangerous and expensive routes, often traveling through several countries before reaching the US border. Smugglers and travel agents play a big role, and recent US visa bans target those who help people migrate illegally.
What Can Affected Individuals Do?
If you or someone you know is facing deportation or visa problems:
- Contact Indian Consulates: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (www.mea.gov.in) offers help to citizens abroad. They can provide information, legal aid, and support during deportation.
- Check US Government Resources: The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website (www.ice.gov) has information on deportation procedures and rights.
- Legal Help: It is important to seek legal advice if you are facing removal. Immigration lawyers can help with appeals, asylum claims, or other options.
- Stay Informed: Watch for updates from both governments about new rules, especially if you are a student or planning to travel.
What Are the Broader Implications?
For India 🇮🇳: The return of large numbers of deportees puts pressure on local governments to help them reintegrate. Some returnees face stigma or legal trouble, especially if they left using fake documents or were involved in criminal activity.
For the US 🇺🇸: The focus on deporting Indians and other migrants is part of a broader push for stricter immigration enforcement. However, public support for harsh measures is falling, and there is growing interest in finding ways to let undocumented immigrants stay legally.
For Students: Indian students are caught in the middle. Many worry about losing their chance to study in the US, while others fear being sent home for small mistakes. The uncertainty makes it harder to plan for the future.
What Do Experts Say?
- Migration Policy Institute: Most Indian immigrants are skilled, but irregular migration is rising due to joblessness and political issues in India.
- Council on Foreign Relations: President Trump’s tough talk on deportations has not led to higher numbers than under President Biden, mainly because fewer people are crossing the border.
- Gallup Poll: Americans are less supportive of mass deportations and more open to letting undocumented immigrants become citizens.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the current wave of Indians deported from the US is shaped by a mix of new policies, changing public opinion, and ongoing cooperation between the two countries. The use of military flights, stricter visa checks, and the focus on travel agents mark a new phase in US-India migration ties.
What Should You Watch For Next?
- More Student Visa Changes: The US may soon require more social media checks for all visa applicants, making the process longer and more uncertain.
- Continued Deportations: If current trends continue, the number of Indians deported from the US in 2025 could surpass previous years.
- Policy Shifts: Both countries may adjust their policies as public opinion changes and new challenges arise.
Practical Steps for Those Affected
- Stay in Touch with Consulates: Keep contact information for Indian consulates and US immigration offices handy.
- Know Your Rights: Learn about your legal rights during deportation. The US Department of State – Visa Services provides official guidance on visas and entry requirements.
- Plan Ahead: If you are a student or planning to migrate, stay updated on the latest rules and prepare for possible delays or extra checks.
The situation for Indians deported from the US remains complex and fast-changing. While governments work to manage migration, individuals and families must stay informed and seek help when needed. By understanding the latest rules and knowing where to turn for support, those affected can better face the challenges ahead.
Learn Today
Deportation → The formal removal of a foreign national from a country for violating immigration laws.
Fast-track deportations → A legal process allowing rapid deportation with limited appeals to speed removals.
Visa Waiver Program → A US program permitting citizens of certain countries to travel without a visa for short stays.
Charter flight → A non-scheduled flight arranged specifically to transport deportees back to their home country.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) → A US federal agency enforcing immigration laws and handling deportations.
This Article in a Nutshell
In 2025, US deportations of Indian nationals surged dramatically, driven by stringent immigration policies. Military flights and visa restrictions impact students and irregular migrants. This intensifying trend sparks diplomatic tensions and concerns about fairness, while cooperation between the US and India continues to shape the evolving migration landscape.
— By VisaVerge.com
