The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently announced in the Rajya Sabha that between January 1 and March 31, 2026, the United States deported a total of 414 Indian nationals. In addition to these numbers, over 170 Indian nationals were expelled from various other countries during the same timeframe. This information was presented in response to a parliamentary inquiry regarding the deportation of Indian nationals across multiple countries.

Among the countries in Europe, 174 Indian nationals were sent back during the period. The United Kingdom recorded the highest number of deportations in Europe, with 57 individuals, followed closely by Cyprus with 53 deportations. Other countries, including Greece, Turkiye, and France, reported lower numbers, with Greece accounting for 10 deportations and Turkiye, six. Overall, the total number of Indian nationals deported from the US and European nations from January to March 2026 reached 588.

Data also highlights a noticeable trend in deportations from the US over recent years. In 2023, the US deported 617 Indian nationals, which increased to 1,368 in 2024, and surged further to 2,025 in 2025. The reported numbers indicate a concerning pattern for Indian nationals facing deportation.

Trends in Deportations from European Nations

The report revealed that Cyprus and the United Kingdom were significant contributors to the number of Indian deportations in Europe. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) statistics, Cyprus deported 173 Indian nationals in 2023, followed by 183 in 2024 and 164 in 2025. The UK deported figures increased significantly from 98 in 2023 to 156 in 2025.

During the period from 2023 to 2025, Cyprus consistently showed high numbers of deportations, totalling 520 cases, while the UK accounted for 364 deportations. These statistics reflect broader challenges faced by Indian nationals in these regions.

Jaishankar’s statements also addressed concerns regarding illegal recruitment practices. He indicated that action is taken against agents accused of misleading Indian nationals with fraudulent job offers. The Ministry has been proactive in referring such cases to state police for necessary investigation and prosecution under relevant laws.

Support for Deported Nationals and Legal Assistance Abroad

The Minister further stressed that support for the reintegration of Indian nationals who have been deported primarily lies with the respective state governments. This response was part of a larger discourse on the responsibility of local authorities in aiding the successful return of migrants to their communities.

In a separate reply concerning legal aid for Indian nationals detained overseas, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that the Indian Missions and Posts abroad offer financial assistance for legal representation to eligible individuals in distress. This support is provided through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF), highlighting the government’s commitment to assisting Indian nationals facing legal challenges abroad.

The MEA also clarified that while families of detained nationals are advised to arrange legal counsel and cover costs associated with legal proceedings, aid is available for those unable to afford such expenses. Indian Missions maintain panels of lawyers in countries with significant Indian populations, ensuring access to legal support for those in need.

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