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Pakistan has rejected a request from the Afghan Taliban to extend the stay of Afghan refugees. Kabul has been informed that Islamabad will proceed with its plan to deport all illegal migrants and Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders from 1 April.
On 7 March, Pakistan announced that ACC holders must leave the country by 31 March or face deportation. Around 800,000 Afghans hold ACCs, and after the deadline, they will be considered illegal residents.
“The Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Programme (IFRP) has been in place since 1 November 2023,” stated the Ministry of Interior. “All illegal foreigners and ACC holders must leave voluntarily before 31 March 2025. Deportations will begin from 1 April.”
Pakistan insists that Afghan migrants have had ample time to return. Despite diplomatic requests from the Taliban, officials confirmed that the decision is final and no extensions will be granted. Provincial authorities have been instructed to facilitate deportations.
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Since November 2023, over 800,000 Afghans have been repatriated. However, Pakistan had previously allowed those registered with the UNHCR or holding ACCs to stay.
The Afghan government has raised concerns over forced deportations, claiming mistreatment of its nationals. Pakistan denies these accusations, urging the Taliban to create conditions that encourage voluntary returns.
Tensions between the two nations remain high. Pakistan has blamed Afghanistan for rising terrorist attacks, citing Afghan involvement in the recent incidents that took place in the country, including the attack on Bannu Cantonment.
Clashes at the Torkham border have further strained relations. Islamabad claims Afghanistan attempted to build a check post on Pakistani territory, leading to the border’s closure since 21 February. Authorities confirmed that deportations will also take place through Torkham.
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