Illegal Indian Entrants to US Soar 40-Fold Over Four Years

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Key Takeaways

• Unauthorized entries by Indian nationals into the U.S. increased from 1,000 in 2020 to 40,000 in 2024.
• Deportations of Indian nationals rose from 400 in 2023 to over 1,500 in 2024, following stricter U.S. immigration policies.
• Human smuggling via the “donkey route” costs families Rs 40-60 lakh ($48,000-$72,000) and exposes migrants to extreme risks.

The number of Indian nationals entering the United States through unauthorized means has surged dramatically over the past few years. Between fiscal year 2020 and 2023, these numbers leaped from around 1,000 to a peak of 43,000, highlighting a 40-fold increase. Although the fiscal year 2024 saw a slight dip to 40,000 apprehensions, these figures remain a defining aspect of U.S. border concerns. This trend highlights a growing migration challenge, especially with the involvement of Indian nationals seeking entry into the United States through informal or illegal channels.

Shift in Migration Statistics

Illegal Indian Entrants to US Soar 40-Fold Over Four Years

Numerous factors have contributed to this increase. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) reported a steep rise in asylum requests by Indian nationals between 2021 and 2023. During this time, asylum applications surged tenfold, from roughly 5,000 in 2021 to more than 51,000 in 2023. Many of these requests stem from claims of political, religious, or social persecution. Meanwhile, data collected over the years has also provided insight into the demographic makeup of these individuals. Linguistic patterns suggest that Punjabi-speaking Indians, likely hailing from the northern Punjab region, account for a large portion of these migrants.

While more Indian nationals are being apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border, estimates from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicate no discernible increase in the overall unauthorized Indian population in the U.S. between 2020 and 2022. According to DHS data, there has been a 60% decline in this group since its peak of 560,000 in 2016. By 2022, that estimate had fallen to approximately 220,000 individuals. However, it is important to note that this estimate does not align fully with the 2023 developments and may undercount more recent unauthorized entrants.

Deportations and Returns

As border apprehensions and asylum requests by Indian migrants grow, so do deportation figures. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) data shows a sharp increase in the number of Indian nationals deported in 2023 and 2024, rising from 400 to over 1,500. Notably, deportation numbers peaked in 2020 with nearly 2,300 removals, coinciding with the onset of stricter immigration measures. Data from India’s Ministry of External Affairs indicates that approximately 16,000 Indians were deported from the United States between 2009 and 2024, averaging around 1,000 annually across various administrations.

The deportation rate varies by presidency. During the Obama years, an average of 750 Indians were deported per year. The Trump administration notably increased deportations, averaging 1,550 annually. Under the Biden administration, this average decreased to 900 per year. However, stricter immigration measures in recent years, coupled with new interpretations of immigration law, might drive these numbers up again.

The Role of Policy Changes

Several evolving U.S. immigration policies have likely played a role in rising unauthorized crossings. The perception of more lenient border policies during the Biden administration may have incentivized some to attempt illegal entry. However, the implementation of tougher immigration rules under President Trump since 2025 is expected to shift these dynamics once again.

The recent proclamation by President Trump aims to restrict entry at the southern U.S. border further. Under this policy, individuals entering illegally face immediate disqualifications from obtaining immigration benefits, including asylum. Expedited deportations, once limited geographically, are now being enforced nationwide for undocumented immigrants residing in the U.S. for less than two years. These measures, alongside the construction of additional detention facilities near U.S.-Mexico border regions, may deter potential migrants, including Indian nationals.

Additionally, as of January 2025, the suspension of the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) has closed another legal pathway for vulnerable migrants seeking admission. Taken together, these policies contribute to a more difficult environment for asylum seekers and other unauthorized entrants, regardless of challenges they may face in their home countries.

Growth of the “Donkey Route”

One significant channel for illegal Indian immigration to the U.S. is through the “donkey route,” an informal and dangerous system of human smuggling networks that operate across continents. Indian nationals following this route typically begin their journeys in India, transit through Central or South America, and make their way north to the U.S.-Mexico border. Along the way, many endure dangerous conditions, exploitation, and financial strain.

This smuggling system also comes at a high cost. Families often pay between Rs 40-60 lakh (approximately $48,000-$72,000) to arrange passage for one individual. These substantial financial sacrifices often leave families with little recourse if the migration attempt fails or if the individual is detained and deported after arrival. Yet, the promise of life in the U.S. continues to draw thousands toward this perilous journey.

Broader Implications

The surge in illegal Indian migration has significant consequences for both the U.S. and India. For Indian families, the financial and emotional costs of sending someone to the U.S. through unauthorized pathways can be devastating, particularly if the effort is unsuccessful. On the other side, for the U.S., unauthorized migration adds strain to immigration systems and enforcement operations. Industries like agriculture, hospitality, and care services—sectors historically reliant on immigrant labor—might experience disruptions due to heightened immigration enforcement.

Migrants and their families also face personal challenges. The rise in deportations could cause significant emotional trauma, particularly among mixed-status households. For example, U.S. citizen children with undocumented parents face uncertainty and potential separation. Further, the strain on detention centers and legal systems underscores the pressure that unauthorized migration places on these institutions.

Diplomatic Considerations

The growing challenges surrounding illegal Indian migrants have the potential to influence U.S.-India relations. President Trump’s immigration policies, particularly the large-scale deportations and legal restrictions on asylum-seeking, could complicate India’s diplomatic engagement with the U.S. Prime Minister Modi, a key partner in fostering bilateral ties, may find himself navigating delicate discussions with U.S. leadership to address these migration issues. Matters like resource-sharing, data coordination, and agreements on deportation policies may require greater collaboration amidst these tensions.

Outlook for Indian Nationals

The path ahead for unauthorized Indian migrants remains fraught with challenges. As of early 2025, disputes regarding some of the strictest immigration policies, such as proposed restrictions on birthright citizenship, remain unresolved in court. However, many changes—such as expanded expedited removals and more restrictive asylum eligibility—are already reshaping the dynamics of Indian migration to the U.S.

For Indian nationals considering migration, it is imperative to explore all legal channels rather than resorting to informal networks or human smuggling. The risks associated with illegal entry, including financial exploitation, detention, and deportation, far outweigh any potential benefits. As suggested by VisaVerge.com, relying on official channels not only reduces risks but also strengthens the long-term prospects of establishing a secure future in a foreign country. Additional details on legal pathways can be found through official immigration resources such as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website: https://www.uscis.gov.

Final Thoughts

The sharp rise in illegal Indian entrants to the United States, amplified by the use of the “donkey route,” is a pressing issue that impacts individuals, communities, and governments alike. While the Biden administration’s earlier policies may have led to increased crossings, the recent policy shifts under President Trump could change trends going forward. Both India and the U.S. face challenges balancing immigration enforcement, humanitarian concerns, and broader diplomatic relations. Amid these complexities, one thing remains clear: Finding sustainable and legal solutions for migration is essential for addressing these ongoing issues in the years to come.

Learn Today

Unauthorized crossings → Illegal attempts to enter a country’s borders without proper documentation or permission from immigration authorities.
Asylum → Protection granted to individuals fleeing persecution due to race, religion, nationality, or membership in a particular group.
Deportation → The formal removal of a foreign individual from a country for violating immigration laws or policies.
Donkey route → A dangerous human smuggling network used to facilitate illegal migration across multiple countries to reach the U.S.
Expedited removals → Fast-tracked deportation processes applied to undocumented individuals who fail to meet specific legal residency requirements.

This Article in a Nutshell

Illegal Indian migration to the U.S. has soared, fueled by economic hardship and dangerous smuggling routes like the “donkey route.” Families gamble fortunes for uncertain futures, yet harsh U.S. policies are reshaping this trend. Legal migration remains the safest path, urging potential migrants to prioritize long-term security over perilous shortcuts.
— By VisaVerge.com