New Era For Indians 'Going Global': MEA Drafts Overseas Mobility Bill To Replace Dated Emigration Act

In a significant move to modernise the management of its vast and globally dispersed workforce, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has proposed the introduction of the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation

and Welfare) Bill, 2025. This long-anticipated legislation is set to replace the four-decade-old Emigration Act, 1983, a law widely considered obsolete in the face of India’s contemporary migration dynamics and its aspiration to become a global talent hub.

The core objective of the new bill is to establish a comprehensive, data-driven regime that promotes safe, legal, and orderly migration for Indian nationals seeking overseas employment, a key focus area of India’s current foreign policy.

The proposed bill shifts the emphasis from mere regulation to holistic “emigration management” and the proactive welfare of emigrants. Central to this new framework is the proposed establishment of an Overseas Mobility and Welfare Council. This body is envisioned to foster greater policy convergence among various ministries and departments—a crucial step for coordinating actions on skill development, labour studies, and foreign relations.

Furthermore, the bill is designed to create a robust mechanism for overseeing the administration and implementation of international agreements on migration and mobility, thereby institutionalising India’s commitment to bilateral and multilateral labour pacts.

Recognising the vulnerability of many workers, the legislation seeks to strike a deliberate balance: simultaneously promoting overseas opportunities while establishing a strong regulatory firewall for the protection and welfare of vulnerable categories of emigrants. This includes robust data-driven policy management based on labour market studies, enabling the government to respond effectively to global demand and exploitation risks.

The draft of this progressive bill has now been placed on the MEA’s website for public consultation, inviting comments and suggestions by November 7. This public engagement signifies a move towards a transparent and inclusive process for creating a law that is truly aligned with the needs of India’s over 15 million citizens working abroad.