Afghans with valid visas can enjoy access to stay, lawful jobs

2026-02-19 - 20:13

150,000 illegal Afghan nationals repatriated since 2023, says Home Dept Fida Hussnain Punjab Home department has made it clear that Afghans with valid visa can stay and work here in accordance with the law. More than 150,000 Afghan nationals residing illegally in Punjab have been repatriated since 2023 as part of an ongoing nationwide drive, the Punjab Home Department confirmed on Thursday. The Home department spokesperson said that the repatriation campaign is being carried out in line with the federal government’s policy regarding foreign nationals without valid documentation. Since 2023, nearly two million Afghan nationals have been sent back from across Pakistan, including over 150,000 from Punjab alone. It said the figures reflect the Punjab government’s coordinated strategy and active administrative measures. Under the government’s policy, the stay of Afghan nationals without valid visas is considered illegal. All such individuals are being repatriated, while those holding valid visas are permitted to reside, work and conduct business in accordance with the law. Currently, 37 holding centres are operational across the province, where 69 Afghan nationals are being temporarily accommodated pending completion of documentation for their return. These centres facilitate temporary lodging, registration, and repatriation arrangements. During a recent province-wide crackdown, authorities inspected public places, residential areas, seminaries, educational institutions, and business establishments. As a result, 11,739 illegally residing Afghan nationals were identified and repatriated. Punjab Home department urged citizens to support the national mission by reporting cases of illegal stay, forged identification, or suspicious activities involving Afghan nationals to the Emergency Helpline 15. Acting on information received through the helpline, authorities have so far repatriated 450 Afghan nationals. Facial recognition cameras are also being used to enhance monitoring during the drive. The department clarified that the action is strictly against individuals residing illegally, while Afghan nationals with valid visas continue to enjoy lawful access to employment and other facilities in Punjab.