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Ministry Data Shows 24,600 Indians Deported in 2025
In 2025, over 24,600 Indian nationals were deported from 81 countries, according to figures presented by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in the Rajya Sabha. Unexpectedly, Saudi Arabia deported the highest number of Indians during the year, surpassing the United States, which had long been perceived as the top destination for deportations.
Saudi Arabia Leads in Deportations
Saudi Arabia accounted for more than 11,000 deportations of Indian citizens in 2025, making it the leading country globally for Indian deportations. This number was significantly higher than the approximately 3,800 Indians deported from the United States over the same period. The large figures from Saudi Arabia reflect the size of the Indian migrant workforce in the Gulf nation and stricter enforcement of residency and visa rules.
Reasons Behind Deportations
Officials said a variety of factors contributed to deportations across countries. Visa overstays, expired documentation, working without valid permits, and violations of local immigration or labour laws were among the main causes cited. Gulf countries, with large Indian expatriate populations, featured prominently in the list of nations with high deportations.
Broader Patterns and Government Response
The data also highlighted notable deportation numbers from several other countries. Indian missions abroad engage with host governments to assist nationals facing deportation and to ensure legal processes are followed. Authorities continue to stress the importance of legal compliance with immigration and work regulations for Indians working overseas to avoid deportation.
