Over 24,600 Indian Nationals Deported Worldwide in 2025: Khaleej Times

More than 24,600 Indian nationals were deported from different countries around the world in 2025, according to figures presented by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in the Rajya Sabha, as reported by Khaleej Times.

Saudi Arabia recorded the highest number of deportations, with 7,019 Indians deported from Riyadh and 3,865 from Jeddah, bringing the total to 10,884. The United States followed, deporting 3,812 Indian nationals during the year.

In the United Arab Emirates, 1,469 Indian nationals were deported in 2025, marking the highest number reported in the past five years. Between 2021 and 2025, a total of 3,979 Indians were deported from the UAE. The year-wise figures show 358 deportations in 2021, 587 in 2022, 666 in 2023, 899 in 2024, and a sharp rise to 1,469 in 2025.

The report identified overstaying visas, working without valid work permits, and violations of labour laws as the main reasons for deportation. Other factors included fake job offers, bogus recruitment practices, absconding from employers, and involvement in civil or criminal cases.

To address residency violations, the UAE introduced a visa amnesty scheme in 2024, allowing individuals to regularize their status or leave the country without penalties. The amnesty began on September 1, 2024, initially ended on October 31, and was later extended until December 31, 2024. According to the report, this was the UAE’s fourth amnesty programme since 2007. A similar amnesty was also introduced in 2018 for 90 days and later extended until the end of that year.

Apart from Saudi Arabia, the US, and the UAE, Indian nationals were also deported from several other countries in 2025. These included Malaysia, Bahrain, Thailand, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, Canada, Georgia, and Australia.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that most countries do not share details related to illegal stays unless a formal deportation order is issued or nationality verification is required. Indian missions abroad regularly issue advisories warning citizens against fake recruitment agencies and job scams, advising job seekers to verify employers and agents before accepting overseas employment offers.