The United States has imposed visa restrictions on owners, executives, and senior officials of Indian travel agencies found to be facilitating illegal immigration. The US Department of State announced the move on Monday, stating that it aims to target individuals involved in human smuggling and trafficking networks.

These visa restrictions will apply to senior staff who knowingly assisted individuals in unlawfully entering the US. According to Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, these restrictions fall under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Notably, these restrictions will also affect individuals who would otherwise be eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program.

The US Embassy in India has been actively alerting Indian nationals visiting the US not to overstay their authorized period, warning that doing so could lead to deportation and a permanent ban from re-entering the country.

This action is part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration under President Trump's administration. In February, the US used military aircraft to deport hundreds of individuals, including Indian nationals who had entered the country illegally. The administration has also introduced stricter rules for H1B visas and increased ICE raids.

The US Mission in India, particularly the Consular Affairs Division and the Diplomatic Security Service, is actively identifying and targeting those involved in facilitating illegal immigration. The US intends to hold accountable those who profit from smuggling operations and violate US laws.

Concerns have been rising over the number of undocumented Indian immigrants in the US. The Pew Research Center estimates that there were approximately 725,000 undocumented Indians in the US as of 2024. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has reported that 682 Indian nationals have been deported from the US since January 2025.

Kuljit Singh Hayer, president of the Punj-Aab travel agents association, acknowledged the US action but expressed doubt about its practical implementation. He questioned how authorities would effectively detect and document travel agencies involved in facilitating illegal immigration, especially since such agencies often operate under dummy names.

The US State Department has not yet released a list of specific agencies or individuals who will be impacted by these visa restrictions, citing visa record confidentiality.