The US Department of State on Monday announced visa restrictions on owners and senior officials of Indian travel agencies accused of facilitating illegal immigration to the United States. The move targets individuals allegedly involved in human smuggling and trafficking, as part of broader efforts to dismantle illicit migration networks.
Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a statement that the restrictions apply to executives and senior staff who knowingly enabled unlawful entry into the US. The action was taken under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act and will impact even those eligible for the Visa Waiver Programme.
“Mission India’s Consular Affairs and Diplomatic Security Service are actively identifying and targeting those engaged in illegal immigration facilitation,” Bruce said. “We will continue to hold accountable individuals who violate US laws, including those who profit from smuggling operations,” he added.
According to the Pew Research Center, an estimated 7,25,000 undocumented Indian immigrants were living in the US as of 2024. The Ministry of External Affairs reports that 682 Indian nationals have been deported from the US since January 2025, most for attempting to enter illegally.
This development comes amid tougher immigration measures under the Trump administration, including stricter H-1B visa rules, an increase in ICE raids and moves to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants.