Indian Deportations in 2025: Data, Allegations, and Official Positions

The latest data verified by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in the Rajya Sabha on December 18, 2025 show a sharp pattern in deportations of Indian nationals abroad. Saudi Arabia deported over 11,000 Indian nationals in 2025, the highest figure from any single country.

The year 2025 saw total deportations of Indians worldwide exceed 24,600 across 81 countries.

United States deported approximately 3,800 Indians, its highest figure in five years.

Primary reasons for Gulf deportations

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• Visa overstays
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• Working without valid permits
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• Absconding from employers
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• Civil or criminal legal cases
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Most affected individuals: low-skilled migrant workers.

Common sectors involved: construction, domestic work, caregiving, and related labor.

Other countries with notable deportation numbers

Myanmar: 1,591
Malaysia: 1,485
United Arab Emirates: 1,469
Bahrain: 764

Espionage allegations

Regional outlets have alleged that some deportations or detentions involve accusations of espionage for Israel. Countries mentioned include Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and Iran. The allegations suggest involvement of Indian nationals in security or intelligence-related activities, including IT and critical sectors.

In Iran, hardline media claimed arrests of dozens of Indians linked to Israeli intelligence, including reports of executions. A specific claim alleged Indian intelligence involvement in an Israeli airstrike in Doha, Qatar on September 9, 2025 targeting Hamas leadership. No official confirmation from India, Israel, or the accused countries.

Official Position

India’s MEA has not commented on espionage allegations. The MEA emphasises:n

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• Welfare of Indian nationals abroad
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• Engagement with host governments for fair treatment
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