Pakistan has refused to extend the stay of Afghan nationals living illegally in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Afghan government had requested an extension, but authorities rejected the plea. These individuals were previously ordered to leave the country by February 28, 2025. Now, they have only seven days to remain in the twin cities.
Security agencies have already prepared lists of Afghan nationals staying unlawfully. These records include details about their residences and current locations. Officials are closely monitoring the situation to ensure compliance with the government’s decision.
However, Afghan nationals holding valid documents to travel to another country can stay in Pakistan until March 31, 2025. After this deadline, they must also leave the country. Meanwhile, those with valid Pakistani visas may remain for the duration mentioned on their permits.
Government sources revealed that expelling Afghan nationals has become necessary due to security concerns in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Authorities believe that removing illegal residents will help maintain stability in the sensitive twin cities.
Pakistan Rejects Afghan Envoy’s Remarks
Pakistan has dismissed allegations made by the acting Afghan chargé d’affaires regarding the mistreatment of Afghan nationals. The accusations were linked to Pakistan’s Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP), under which Afghan refugees are being repatriated.
Islamabad reminded Kabul that Pakistan has sheltered millions of Afghan nationals for decades. Pakistani officials raised concerns about Afghanistan-related challenges during high-level discussions in New York and London.
A Foreign Office spokesperson rejected the Afghan diplomat’s claims. “His statements about mistreatment are baseless. Pakistan has always treated Afghan nationals with respect and dignity. We have provided them with hospitality, education, and healthcare, despite receiving minimal international assistance,” the spokesperson stated.
Officials clarified that the IFRP began in 2023 to manage the orderly return of Afghan nationals. Proper mechanisms were implemented to ensure that no one faced mistreatment or harassment. The Afghan government was also engaged throughout the process to facilitate smooth repatriation.
The Afghan Embassy in Islamabad, in a strongly worded statement, earlier claimed that Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry had confirmed a complete expulsion plan. The embassy stated that all Afghan nationals, not just those in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, would be removed from the entire country soon.
