Official government data has revealed a significant shift in the pattern of deportations involving Indian nationals abroad. Contrary to common perception, it was Saudi Arabia, not the United States, that sent back the highest number of Indian citizens during 2025.
Saudi Arabia Accounts for Nearly Half of All Deportations
According to information presented by India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in Parliament, more than 24,600 Indians were deported from a total of 81 countries in the year 2025. The data, which was updated on December 27, 2025, shows a startling concentration of cases in the Gulf nation. Saudi Arabia alone was responsible for over 11,000 deportations, accounting for nearly half of the global total for Indian nationals.
United States Sees a Sharp Five-Year Rise
While Saudi Arabia led the list, the United States secured the second position. American authorities deported approximately 3,800 Indians back to their home country. This figure is notable as it represents the highest number of deportations from the US in a span of five years, indicating a notable increase in enforcement actions.
Analyzing the Broader Implications
The comprehensive MEA data, presented by official Anna Mathew, paints a detailed picture of the challenges faced by the Indian diaspora. The scale of deportations from Saudi Arabia highlights specific issues in the Gulf region, which hosts millions of Indian workers. Key factors often cited include:
- Violations of residency (iqama) laws.
- Employment contract disputes.
- Overstay beyond visa validity.
The spike in US numbers also warrants attention from policymakers and the community, suggesting tighter scrutiny on immigration compliance. The government's response and support mechanisms for returning citizens are likely to come under focus following this official disclosure.
