Pakistan’s Stance on Afghan Student Visas Amid Repatriation Efforts

Pakistan is currently navigating a complex situation regarding Afghan students, processing their visa extension applications while simultaneously enforcing a plan to repatriate illegal foreigners. The government has stated that applications are being reviewed under existing rules, but this process occurs alongside warnings that individuals without valid visas and passports face deportation. This dual approach has created uncertainty for many Afghan students pursuing education in Pakistan.

Processing Afghan Student Visa Extensions

The Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson, Sajjad Haider Khan, clarified that relevant institutions are continuing to process visa extension requests from Afghan students. This processing adheres to the established policies, rules, and regulations. The statement emphasizes that these applications are being handled on a case-by-case basis, indicating no automatic renewal or blanket approval for all students.

The Illegal Foreigner Repatriation Plan

In parallel with student visa processing, Pakistan is actively implementing the Illegal Foreigner Repatriation Plan (IFRP). Under this plan, any foreign national found to be without a valid visa and passport is considered to be staying illegally. Such individuals are subject to deportation. This policy aims to address the presence of undocumented foreign nationals within the country.

Legal Challenges and Diplomatic Channels

The situation has led to legal challenges, with some Afghan students seeking relief from the courts. A case involving 87 Afghan students who were issued one-year visas in 2023 has reached the Islamabad High Court. During a hearing, a judge suggested that the students should pursue their case through diplomatic channels, advising them to contact the Afghan embassy, which would then liaise with the Pakistani embassy. This indicates a preference for resolving such matters through diplomatic means rather than solely through the judicial system.

Specific Restrictions for Medical and Dental Students

A separate directive from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has imposed stricter measures specifically on Afghan students enrolled in medical and dental programs. This council issued a notice ordering currently enrolled Afghan students in these fields to return to Afghanistan. Furthermore, new admissions for Afghan students in medical and dental programs for the current academic year have been barred. Educational institutions have been instructed to complete the necessary exit procedures for the affected students. This targeted restriction distinguishes their situation from that of other Afghan students and the broader repatriation policy.

Ongoing Review and Case-by-Case Processing

The Pakistani foreign office has maintained its position that Afghan student visa applications continue to be processed individually. The emphasis remains on adhering to existing policies and regulations for each application. This approach suggests that while avenues for legal stay are being reviewed, the government is also firm in its stance on enforcing immigration laws for those without proper documentation. The situation remains dynamic, with ongoing pressure through legal avenues, the repatriation plan, and specific educational council directives.

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