Pakistan ends extension for undocumented Afghan nationals

Pakistan will no longer extend the stay of undocumented Afghan nationals, Deputy Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry announced on Friday, reaffirming the country’s ongoing repatriation policy. The April 10 deadline for Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders to leave has passed, and no further extensions will be granted.

Chaudhry said the repatriation process is being implemented under a “single-document regime,” allowing only Afghans with valid passports and visas to legally remain in Pakistan. The effort, which began in October 2024, has led to the return of over 857,000 undocumented Afghans, including ACC holders.

The process is unfolding in three phases: removal of undocumented foreigners, repatriation of ACC holders, and return of Afghan refugees under the Proof of Registration (PoR) program. Authorities have set up 49 repatriation centers offering shelter, food, and medical aid. Pakistan maintains the policy is driven by security and immigration concerns, while Taliban officials have denied related allegations.