The Pakistani Interior Ministry has directed provincial governments to arrest Afghan nationals residing in the country without valid visas starting July 10, 2026. The order, issued on June 28, reinforces the government's Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan (IFRP), a deportation campaign initiated in October 2023 targeting undocumented foreigners, primarily Afghans.
Background of the Deportation Campaign
The IFRP was launched to expel undocumented foreigners, with officials citing security concerns and economic strain. Pakistani authorities have repeatedly alleged that militants use Afghan soil to plan attacks inside Pakistan, a claim denied by the Taliban-led government in Kabul. Additionally, Islamabad points to the decades-long burden of hosting millions of Afghan refugees since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979.
According to government figures and international agencies, over two million Afghans have returned or been deported since the campaign began.
Details of the New Directive
The Interior Ministry directive, dated June 28 and seen by Arab News, states: “With effect from 10th July, 2026, any Afghan national found residing in Pakistan without a valid visa shall be arrested immediately.” It instructs chief secretaries, deputy commissioners, district administrations, police, and other law enforcement agencies to ensure uniform and effective implementation.
Provincial authorities are required to submit daily reports from July 11 detailing the number of Afghan nationals without valid visas, actions taken, and their immigration status.
Reasoning and Implementation
The directive follows decisions from a June 1 review meeting on the IFRP chaired by the interior secretary. Provincial governments and the Islamabad administration were directed to expedite repatriation and deportation of Afghan nationals, including those with visa overstays.
The deportation campaign has drawn criticism from the United Nations and human rights organizations, who raise concerns about forced returns. Pakistani authorities maintain the policy applies only to foreigners residing illegally and is necessary for national security and immigration enforcement.
