Washington/New Delhi: The United States announced visa restrictions today, targeting owners, executives, and senior officials of Indian travel agencies accused of facilitating illegal immigration. India’s travel industry faces uncertainty, as the lack of enforcement details raises concerns about impacts on legitimate operations.
The U.S. State Department stated that its Consular Affairs and Diplomatic Security Service is identifying those involved through the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India. “We will continue to take steps to impose visa restrictions against owners, executives, and senior officials of travel agencies to cut off alien smuggling networks,” the statement read. Senior officials likely include roles such as directors or operations managers, though no individuals or agencies were named. The policy, enacted under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, applies globally, including to Visa Waiver Program participants, to deter illegal immigration and penalise violators.
India’s travel sector, a key economic contributor, is grappling with how the restrictions will be enforced. The absence of a public list of targeted agencies creates risks of misidentification, potentially affecting compliant firms that arrange lawful travel, such as tourist or business visas. Without specifics on whether enforcement will involve targeted investigations or Indian cooperation, agencies face challenges in safeguarding their operations. The policy could disrupt international business, as restricted personnel often travel to the U.S. for trade events or partnerships.
The restrictions follow a contentious deportation on February 5, 2025, when the U.S. repatriated 104 Indian nationals, including women and children, to Amritsar on a military plane, with deportees shackled during the 40-hour flight. Protests erupted outside Parliament, led by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, who wore handcuffs in solidarity, and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, who criticised the “inhumane” treatment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue with U.S. President Donald Trump on February 13, 2025, urging civilian repatriation flights, according to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri objected to the treatment of deportees, particularly women and children.
The February incident underscores India’s sensitivity to U.S. immigration policies, amplifying current industry concerns. The visa restrictions stem from U.S.-India talks on curbing smuggling networks, but India’s Ministry of External Affairs has not commented. The travel sector awaits clear enforcement protocols to navigate the policy while protecting legitimate operations amid ongoing diplomatic discussions.
– global bihari bureau
