Central

Preamble

THE REGISTRATION OF FOREIGNERS ACT, 1939

ACT NO. 16 OR 1939*

[8th April, 1939.]

An Act to provide for the registration of foreigners in British India.

WHEREAS it is expedient to provide for the registration of foreigners

entering, being present in, and departing from, British India;

Short title and extent.

Summary

The introductory text sets out the main reason for creating the law.
It establishes that the law exists to manage the registration of foreign individuals in India.
This registration requirement applies to foreigners who are arriving in the country.
It also applies to foreigners who are currently residing or present within India.
Finally, the law covers foreigners who are departing from the nation.

Practical examples

1A tourist from Spain arrives in New Delhi for a month-long vacation. The introductory part of the law establishes the foundation for requiring her to register upon entering the country.

2A foreign student is studying at a university in Mumbai and plans to fly back to his home country next week. The basic framework of the law covers his registration both while he is present in the city and when he departs.

FAQ

1. What is the main purpose of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 as stated in Section 0?

Under Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, the main purpose is to provide for the registration of foreigners entering, being present in, and departing from India.

2. Does Section 0 of the 1939 foreign registration law apply to citizens leaving India?

No, Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 specifies that it only applies to the registration of foreigners.

3. Are foreigners only tracked when they enter the country under Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939?

Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 explicitly states it provides for registration of foreigners entering, being present in, and departing from India, not just when they enter.

Test yourself

Q1.According to Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, which of the following activities by a foreigner is covered by the legislation?

Q2.What is the geographic scope mentioned for the registration of foreigners in Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939?

Q3.Under Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, what is the stated expediency or need for the Act?

Q4.Based solely on Section 0 of the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, who is the subject of the registration requirements?

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