In a significant policy move, Pakistan announced on Friday that Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders must leave the country by March 31, 2025, or face deportation. This decision marks the first official confirmation from Pakistan’s Interior Ministry regarding the repatriation of Afghan nationals, amid growing tensions between the two nations.
The Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Program (IFRP), launched in November 2023, has already seen the deportation of over 800,000 illegal Afghan residents. Previously, ACC holders were exempt from the program. However, the interior ministry’s latest directive extends the deadline to ACC holders, requiring them to exit voluntarily before April 1, 2025. After that date, deportations will begin.
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The ministry emphasized that the repatriation process would be conducted with dignity, ensuring proper food and healthcare arrangements for returning individuals. “Pakistan has been a gracious host,” the statement noted, adding that all remaining residents must adhere to the country’s legal requirements.
Pakistan’s decision comes amid heightened tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. Afghan officials have expressed concern over alleged mistreatment of deportees, accusations that Pakistan has firmly denied. The growing strain is compounded by recent clashes at the Torkham border and accusations linking Afghan nationals to terrorist attacks in Pakistan, including a recent assault on the Bannu Cantonment.
With border tensions and mutual accusations of provocations, the situation remains volatile. Pakistan urged Afghan authorities to pursue peaceful resolution and avoid actions that could worsen economic conditions in Afghanistan.
