State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry announced on Friday that 75% of Afghan migrants in Pakistan do not possess any valid documentation. He made it clear that no foreigner, including Afghans, will be allowed to stay in the country without proper visas or documents.
Addressing the media in Islamabad, Chaudhry stated, “Pakistan has provided shelter to Afghanistan for 40 years, but now the time has come for foreign nationals to return. No one will stay here without a visa or proper documents. Everyone must go back.”
He further emphasised that there would be no delay in the repatriation of Afghans from Pakistan, with the government already issuing one million visas to facilitate their return, including the possibility of extensions for certain individuals.
Zero Tolerance for Illegal Stay
Chaudhry reiterated that Pakistan’s visa policy is now online, and the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward anyone residing in the country without valid documentation or passports. “Over 84,869 Afghans have already been sent back, and many of them did not possess any documents. Transit points have been established to provide all necessary facilities, and we are ensuring that they return to Afghanistan with dignity,” he said.
He added that a high-level delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, would soon visit Afghanistan to further discuss the issue.
Afghan Repatriation – A Strategic Move
Minister Chaudhry emphasized that the repatriation process is being carried out in line with modern global standards, and Afghans are being treated like guests during their return. He stressed that anyone who is unregistered and involved in illegal activities or terrorism is being closely monitored.
“The provincial governments and federal agencies are working together to speed up the process,” Chaudhry said. “We have urged Afghanistan to assist in the honorable return of their citizens.”
