Government Begins Verification of Undocumented Afghan Refugees

With the government’s deadline for undocumented Afghan refugees expiring on Sunday, teams consisting of police, district administration, and other pertinent departments have been established to initiate identification and verification activities nationwide.

The government had stipulated August 31 as the cutoff date for all Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan for over 46 years.

They were instructed to return to their native country, with authorities cautioning about potential measures starting September 1.

A senior official stated on Sunday, “Teams have been formed at the sub-divisional level to pinpoint Afghan families within their respective jurisdictions. The assistant commissioner, along with the deputy superintendent of police and other relevant officers, will oversee operations in their designated areas.”

Another official mentioned that no stringent actions have been mandated; instead, the designated teams will approach Afghan residents to request their departure, given the expiration of their permitted stay.

In recent months, thousands of Afghans applied for Pakistani visas upon realizing they would no longer be permitted to remain in Pakistan without valid documentation.

Numerous individuals have successfully obtained visas, while their families, who had been residing in Pakistan for approximately 46 years, have already returned to their homeland.

The majority of visa applicants are vendors and shopkeepers, with a smaller number operating restaurants and other commercial ventures.

Several refugee camps across the country have been shut down, with further closures anticipated.

Law enforcement and district administrations are set to enforce the policy concerning Afghan citizens lacking Pakistani visas or valid travel documents, effective today.

Earlier in August, the government announced that all individuals residing in the country without a visa and valid travel documents had been doing so illegally since June 30 and were required to depart by the specified deadline.

Over the past few years, thousands of Afghan families have departed for their country.

During the initial phase in 2023, Pakistan directed all undocumented Afghans to return to their place of origin.

Subsequently, in early 2025, those holding Afghan Citizen Cards were repatriated, while August 31 was designated as the deadline for individuals with Proof of Registration Cards.

A substantial number are still in the process of concluding their business affairs and packing their belongings, citing a need for additional time.