Fri Apr 04 18:13:09 UTC 2025: ## New Indian Immigration Law Imposes Strict Penalties for Forged Documents
**New Delhi, April 5, 2025** – President Droupadi Murmu has signed into law the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, significantly tightening regulations on foreign nationals entering and residing in India. The new legislation, which replaces four previous acts, introduces stringent penalties for those using forged passports or visas.
Offenders now face imprisonment of up to seven years and a fine of ₹10 lakh (approximately $120,000 USD). The law also mandates that hotels, universities, hospitals, and other institutions report information about foreign guests to improve tracking of overstays. International carriers are required to submit passenger manifests and advance passenger information to immigration authorities.
The Act also empowers the central government to regulate establishments frequented by foreigners, allowing for closures, conditional use, or restrictions on foreign access. These measures aim to streamline immigration processes and enhance national security. The consolidated law marks a comprehensive overhaul of India’s immigration framework.
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