Pakistan to Resume Deportation of Illegal Afghan Nationals Amid Expired Registration

The Pakistani government has decided to resume deporting illegal foreign nationals, focusing on Afghan citizens, due to expired registration cards. The Ministry of Interior will apply legal measures to facilitate their repatriation, creating uncertainty among the Afghan refugee community residing in Pakistan.

The Pakistani government is set to recommence the deportation of foreign nationals residing illegally in the country, with a particular focus on Afghan citizens. The Ministry of Interior announced the move, citing the expiration of Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, which have allowed Afghan refugees legal residence in Pakistan, as reported by ARY News.

The PoR cards expired on June 30, prompting the Ministry to classify holders who remain in Pakistan as illegal residents. Authorities have been instructed to start arresting and deporting these individuals. Afghan citizens have been directed to reporting points in Peshawar and Landi Kotal for their impending repatriation, as confirmed by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Home Department.

This measure is part of a broader federal directive aimed at enforcing immigration laws more strictly. Mohammad Reza Sazesh, an Afghan living in Pakistan, described the situation as dire, noting the halt in visa extensions and passport renewals. The changes have sparked fear and uncertainty among the refugee population, amid assurances that PoR cards will not be renewed, consistent with senior officials' statements.

(With inputs from agencies.)