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  Indian repatriation from abroad increases, 19,811 deportees in 2025; Gulf countries and the US see the highest number of deportations.
Samira Vishwas | August 4, 2026 11:24 AM CST

New Delhi! Action against Indian citizens for illegally staying abroad or violating visa rules is steadily increasing. According to data presented by the Ministry of External Affairs in Parliament, a total of 19,811 Indian citizens were detained in various countries or deported back to India in 2025. The highest number of these cases were reported from Gulf countries and the US.

Most Indians were repatriated from the UAE and the US.

According to government data, the highest number of Indians were deported from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2025, with 7,896 deportees. This was followed by the United States (3,500 ), Malaysia (1,675) , Myanmar ( 1,676) and Cambodia ( 1,300 ) .

Violations of visa rules are becoming a major reason

According to experts, a large number of Indians travel to Gulf countries for employment. In many cases, visas are not renewed in time after employment ends or expires, resulting in individuals being classified as illegal residents. They are then detained and deported under local laws.

Cases also emerged from small countries

Ministry of External Affairs data shows that Indian citizens are facing action for illegal immigration not only in major countries but also in many smaller ones. In 2025, 231 Indians were detained or deported from Bangladesh , 30 from Colombia , 27 from Slovakia , 12 from Georgia , 4 from Lithuania , 3 from Malta and 3 from Jamaica .

Action is taken against foreign nationals in India too

Detailed government figures on foreign nationals staying illegally in India are not made public. However, according to various official sources, approximately 2,000 to 2,500 foreign nationals are detained each year for illegal stay. They are deported to their respective countries after completing legal procedures.

Growing challenge

Ministry of External Affairs data indicates that it is more important than ever for Indians traveling abroad for employment or other reasons to comply with local immigration and visa regulations. Violations can result in detention, fines, and deportation. India also periodically takes action against foreign nationals residing illegally in India.


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