ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani Ministry of Interior has issued a formal directive requiring holders of Afghan Citizen Cards (ACCs) currently residing in Pakistan to depart the country by March 31, 2025. The ministry announced that deportation procedures will begin on April 1, 2025.
This announcement marks the first official confirmation from the Interior Ministry regarding the planned eviction of Afghan ACC holders, following previous reports of a broader initiative to repatriate undocumented Afghans.
“The Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Program (IFRP) has been underway since November 1, 2023. Following the government’s decision to repatriate all illegal foreigners, national leadership has now decided to include ACC holders in this initiative,” stated an official handout from the Interior Ministry.
“All illegal foreigners and ACC holders are advised to leave the country voluntarily before March 31, 2025. Deportation will commence from April 1, 2025,” the statement reiterated.
The Interior Ministry emphasized that ample time has been provided for a dignified return. Assurances were given that returnees will not be mistreated during the repatriation process, and provisions for food and healthcare have been made available.
The statement further highlighted Pakistan’s role as a generous host nation and reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling its obligations as a responsible state. It also emphasized that individuals choosing to remain in Pakistan must adhere to all legal requirements and abide by the Pakistani constitution.
Since the launch of the repatriation campaign in November 2023, over 800,000 Afghans living in Pakistan illegally have returned to their country. Estimates suggest that approximately 3 million Afghans still reside in Pakistan.
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