Islamabad (Web Desk): The government on Friday announced its decision to repatriate Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders as part of the ongoing Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Programme (IFRP), which was launched on November 1, 2023.
In a statement, the authorities advised all illegal foreign nationals, including those holding the ACC, to voluntarily leave Pakistan by March 31, 2025.
For individuals who do not comply with this deadline, deportation procedures will begin on April 1.
The government reassured that the repatriation would be conducted in a respectful and humane manner, ensuring the dignified return of all affected individuals.
The authorities emphasized that adequate provisions for food and healthcare have been arranged to assist those who opt for voluntary repatriation.
Pakistan, which has long hosted Afghan refugees, continues to uphold its international obligations, but officials reiterated that individuals who wish to remain in the country must meet the legal requirements and adhere to Pakistan's constitution.
As part of the programme, a total of 781 Afghan nationals have already been repatriated from Islamabad through the Torkham border.
Afghan nationals who are sponsored by European countries or other international nations will not be subject to deportation at this stage.
However, according to sources from the Ministry of Interior, if these individuals' resettlement plans are not finalized in the near future, they could also face deportation.
