Saudi Arabia Tops Global List for Indian Deportations in 2025

In 2025, Saudi Arabia emerged as the leading country for deportations of Indian nationals, accounting for over 11,000 deportations. This data was disclosed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) during a presentation in the Rajya Sabha. Overall, more than 24,600 Indians faced deportation from a total of 81 countries this year, with the United States following closely behind with approximately 3,800 deportations, marking its highest figure in five years.

The primary reason attributed to these deportations is visa overstays, particularly prevalent in Gulf countries. Other nations with significant deportation figures included Myanmar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Malaysia, Bahrain, Thailand, and Cambodia. In Myanmar and Cambodia, the phenomenon of “cyber slavery” played a crucial role, as many Indian migrants were lured by the promise of lucrative job opportunities, only to find themselves trapped in illegal operations and subsequently detained.

Student Deportations Highlighted

Among the deportations of Indian students, the United Kingdom reported the highest number, with 170 Indian students sent back in 2025. Following the UK were Australia with 114 cases, Russia with 82, and the US with 45. The deportations in the United States largely involved private employees and were influenced by stricter document checks and visa status regulations that were implemented during the administration of Donald Trump.

The MEA data revealed that overstaying visa validity was the predominant reason for deportation. Other violations included working without valid permits, breaching labor regulations, and absconding from employers.

Challenges Faced by Indian Workers Abroad

Bheema Reddy, Vice Chairman of Telangana’s NRI advisory committee, addressed the issue of Indian workers falling victim to fraudulent practices by agents in India. Many of these individuals, often low-skilled, migrate through agents seeking better opportunities but can find themselves involved in minor offenses due to a lack of awareness regarding local laws.

This situation underscores the urgent need for better education and support for Indian citizens seeking employment abroad. As deportations continue to rise, it is paramount for both governments and agencies to implement stronger measures to prevent exploitation and ensure the safety of migrant workers.