Using Fake Passport to Enter India Now Punishable by Up to 7 Years in Jail
Date of Implementation: September 1, 2025
According to the newly enacted Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, using or supplying a fake passport or visa to enter, stay in, or leave India will now lead to imprisonment of up to 7 years and a fine up to ₹10 lakh.
The law was passed during the 2025 Budget Session and received presidential assent from Droupadi Murmu on April 4, 2025. The provisions came into effect on September 1, 2025, as per the notification issued by Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Nitesh Kumar Vyas.
Hotels, Universities, and Hospitals Must Report Foreigners
This act mandates that hotels, educational institutions, hospitals, and nursing homes must report information about foreign nationals staying on their premises. This is intended to monitor foreigners who overstay beyond their permitted period.
Airlines and Ships to Submit Passenger Data
All international airlines and shipping carriers arriving at any Indian port or airport must submit an advance passenger and crew list to immigration or civil authorities.
What Was the Law Before?
Previously, the penalty for using fake passports or documents was only up to two years of imprisonment. Now, under the new act, the punishment has increased significantly.
The new law states that any individual who knowingly uses or provides fake or fraudulently obtained passports, travel documents, or visas will face a minimum of 2 years imprisonment, extendable up to 7 years, and a fine ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
Special Powers to the Government
The act grants the central government authority to control and regulate places frequently visited by foreigners. It also allows authorities to:
- Shut down premises
- Restrict usage under specific conditions
- Deny access to certain classes or all foreigners
One Unified Law Replacing Four Old Acts
This comprehensive act replaces four existing laws:
- Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920
- Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
- Foreigners Act, 1946
- Immigration (Carrier Liability) Act, 2000
All the above laws have now been repealed and consolidated under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.