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Indian parents denied entry at US airport as Donald Trump's immigration rules tighten: Report

Indian parents were reportedly denied US entry at Newark airport for not having return tickets.

Published on: Jan 24, 2025, 12:35:47 IST
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An Indian couple visiting their children in the US were denied entry at Newark Airport for not having return tickets, according to a report by Mirchi9. The parents had reportedly travelled on B-1/B-2 visitor visas with plans to stay for five months. However, upon arrival, immigration officials reportedly informed them that a return ticket was now mandatory under the new 2025 regulations, according to the report. HT.com cannot independently verify the report.

Indian parents were reportedly sent back from the US after being denied entry for failing to present return flight tickets. (Representational image/Pixabay)
Indian parents were reportedly sent back from the US after being denied entry for failing to present return flight tickets. (Representational image/Pixabay)

(Also read: Pulitzer-winning Washington Post journalist slams paper over Trump-Biden op-ed: ‘Utterly lost its soul’)

Despite their pleas and explanations, the parents were allegedly sent back to India directly from the airport.

Unannounced rule change causes confusion

The unexpected enforcement of this rule has sparked concern among travellers. Immigration officials at the port of entry cited the 2025 regulations as the basis for denying entry to the parents. However, the lack of prior notice or public communication regarding these changes has left many in the dark.

This incident highlights the need for clarity and transparency from US immigration authorities, especially given the far-reaching implications of such policy changes.

(Also read: ‘F**k you, Trump’: JD Vance, Elon Musk react to Haitian man's remark during ICE crackdown)

Precautionary measures for Indian travellers

This incident has also set alarm bells ringing among the Indian diaspora and prospective visitors to the US. Many are now questioning what other unforeseen measures might be enforced at ports of entry.

Given President Trump’s reputation for implementing strict immigration policies, travellers are being urged to exercise additional caution. Ensuring all documentation is in order, including return tickets and proof of travel plans, is now crucial to avoid such situations.

  • Mahipal Singh Chouhan
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Mahipal Singh Chouhan

    Mahipal Singh Chouhan is a Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times Digital, with nearly five years of experience in digital journalism and content production. He primarily covers offbeat, trending and human-interest stories, with a focus on emerging social media trends, online conversations and real-world incidents that capture public attention. At Hindustan Times, Mahipal works on identifying and developing fast-moving digital stories, adding context and journalistic perspective to viral moments while maintaining accuracy, clarity and readability for online audiences. Before joining Hindustan Times Digital, he was associated with DNA India, where he gained experience in newsroom workflows and digital storytelling. He holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, Delhi. Beyond journalism, he has a keen interest in history and sports and enjoys expanding his general knowledge.Read More

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