In a significant escalation of immigration enforcement, the United States has deported 1,563 Indian nationals since President Donald Trump returned to office on January 20, 2025, according to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This figure, covering the period up to July 15, 2025, marks a sharp increase in deportations compared to the previous administration. Most of these individuals were sent back to India on commercial flights, as confirmed by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
The deportations are part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration ordered by the Trump administration, which has prioritized stringent border control and visa enforcement. The administration claims that those deported had entered the US illegally over the years. India, in turn, has cooperated with the US, acknowledging its responsibility to accept verified citizens living abroad unlawfully.
A Growing Concern for Indian Nationals
An estimated 725,000 Indian nationals live in the US without legal status, making them the third-largest group of undocumented immigrants after those from Mexico and El Salvador, according to Pew Research Center data. This large population underscores the scale of the issue and the potential for further deportations under Trump’s policies.
During Trump’s first term (2017–2021), the US deported 6,135 Indian nationals, with a peak of 2,042 in 2019. In contrast, under President Joe Biden (2021–2025), deportations of Indian nationals dropped to around 3,000, reflecting a less aggressive approach. The recent surge in deportations signals a return to Trump’s hardline stance, a hallmark of his political agenda.
Visa Holders Under Scrutiny
The Trump administration has also intensified scrutiny of visa holders. The US Embassy in India recently issued a warning that even minor legal infractions, such as theft or assault, could lead to visa revocation. A notable case involved an Indian woman caught stealing items worth approximately $1,300 at a Target store in Illinois, highlighting the consequences of such actions. The embassy cautioned that such offenses could render individuals ineligible for future US visas, effectively barring re-entry.
This advisory serves as a stark reminder for foreign visitors to adhere to US laws, as the administration emphasizes that visa screening continues even after entry. Any misstep can have severe consequences, including immediate deportation and long-term exclusion from the US.
Implications and Looking Ahead
The renewed focus on immigration enforcement has sparked concern among Indian communities in the US, particularly for those without legal status. The Trump administration’s policies signal a continuation of its commitment to mass deportations, raising questions about the future for the estimated 725,000 undocumented Indian nationals. As deportations continue, India and the US are likely to maintain close coordination to verify nationalities and facilitate returns.
For now, the message is clear: compliance with US laws is non-negotiable, and the consequences of illegal immigration or legal infractions are swift and severe. As the situation evolves, Indian nationals in the US face an uncertain landscape, navigating stricter regulations and heightened enforcement.