External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar emphasized India's consistent and principled stance on the matter, stating, "We have always taken the view that if there are any of our citizens who are not here legally, if we are sure that they are our citizens, we have always been open to their legitimate return to India." ([NDTV](https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/open-to-legitimate-return-of-indian-nationals-living-illegally-eam-jaishankar-7536903?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The U.S. government has identified these 18,000 individuals for deportation, a figure that, according to sources, may be conservative. The Pew Research Center estimates that there are approximately 725,000 undocumented Indian immigrants in the U.S., making them the third-largest group after those from Mexico and El Salvador. ([The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/21/modi-government-planning-to-repatriate-18000-indians-living-in-us-illegally?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
This move is seen as a strategic effort by India to demonstrate cooperation with the U.S. on immigration issues, thereby aiming to prevent potential trade conflicts and ensure the continuity of legal immigration pathways for its citizens. The H-1B visa program, which permits U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations, is particularly significant for India. In 2023, Indian nationals accounted for nearly 75% of all H-1B visas issued. ([The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/21/modi-government-planning-to-repatriate-18000-indians-living-in-us-illegally?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
During discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jaishankar conveyed India's position, highlighting the importance of legal mobility and the global movement of skilled professionals. He also addressed concerns regarding the extended waiting periods for U.S. visas, stating, "If it takes 400 odd days waiting period to get a visa, I don't think the relationship is well served by this." ([Economic Times](https://m.economictimes.com/nri/latest-updates/jaishankar-on-illegal-us-immigrant-deportation-row-if-it-takes-400-odd-days-to-get-a-visa-dont-think-/articleshow/117472315.cms?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, has intensified efforts to address illegal immigration, including plans to end birthright citizenship and mobilize troops along the U.S.-Mexico border. In this context, India's proactive approach to repatriate its undocumented citizens is viewed as a measure to maintain favorable diplomatic and economic relations. ([The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jan/21/modi-government-planning-to-repatriate-18000-indians-living-in-us-illegally?utm_source=chatgpt.com))