On 28 June 2026, the Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of Interior, issued a directive under the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP) requiring authorities to begin action against Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan without valid legal documentation. Enforcement is scheduled to commence on 10 July 2026.
For many Afghan families living in Pakistan—particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—this directive raises serious concerns regarding residency, family unity, citizenship, and legal status. Many individuals have lived in Pakistan for decades, have Pakistani spouses or children, or have pending refugee or resettlement applications.
Understanding your legal rights is essential. Depending on your circumstances, legal protections may still be available under Pakistani law.
Who May Be Affected?
The enforcement measures primarily concern:
- Afghan nationals without a valid visa or legal immigration status.
- Individuals holding expired or disputed Proof of Registration (PoR) or Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) documents.
- Persons with pending refugee or resettlement applications who may be concerned about the impact on their cases.
Every case is different, and legal status should be assessed individually before any conclusions are reached.
Legal Protections May Still Be Available
Although the IFRP provides for enforcement measures, some individuals may have legal avenues available depending on their circumstances.
These may include persons who:
- Are legally married to Pakistani citizens.
- Have children who may be entitled to Pakistani citizenship.
- Have lived in Pakistan for an extended period with relevant documentary evidence.
- Have pending proceedings before Pakistani courts.
- Have active refugee or resettlement matters through UNHCR or other lawful processes.
Legal remedies depend entirely on the facts of each case and applicable law.
Legal Services Offered by Bukhari & Khan Law Firm
1. Pakistan Origin Card (POC) Applications
Afghan nationals legally married to Pakistani citizens may, in appropriate circumstances, be eligible to apply for a Pakistan Origin Card (POC).
Our legal team assists clients with:
- Preparing POC applications.
- Documentation review.
- NADRA-related issues.
- Court proceedings where legally appropriate.
2. PoR and ACC Disputes
Some individuals allege that PoR or ACC cards were issued in error despite claims of Pakistani citizenship.
Where legally justified, we assist with:
- Document verification.
- Representation before relevant authorities.
- Constitutional petitions challenging administrative decisions.
3. Citizenship and NADRA Documentation for Children
Children’s legal status can significantly affect their future access to education, healthcare, and identity documentation.
We assist eligible families with:
- Birth registration.
- NADRA documentation.
- Form-B applications.
- Citizenship-related legal advice.
4. Legal Assistance for Individuals with Pending UNHCR Matters
Individuals with pending refugee or resettlement processes may require legal guidance regarding their rights under Pakistani law.
Our services include:
- Case assessment.
- Representation before appropriate forums.
- Legal remedies available under applicable law.
5. Constitutional Petitions and Judicial Remedies
Where an individual believes administrative action is inconsistent with the law or constitutional protections, legal remedies may be available through the courts.
Subject to the facts of each case, we advise clients regarding:
- Constitutional petitions.
- Judicial review.
- Interim legal relief where available under law.
Why Early Legal Advice Matters
If you believe the IFRP may affect you or your family, obtaining legal advice before enforcement action begins can help you understand your legal position and available options.
Every immigration and citizenship matter depends on its own facts, documentation, and applicable law. Seeking timely legal advice may assist in protecting your legal rights.
Why Choose Bukhari & Khan Law Firm?
Based in Peshawar, Bukhari & Khan Law Firm provides legal services in matters relating to:
- Immigration Law
- Citizenship
- Constitutional Petitions
- NADRA Disputes
- POC Applications
- Refugee and Documentation Matters
- Family Rights
Our advocates represent clients before the District Courts, the Peshawar High Court, and, where appropriate, the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Contact Us
Bukhari & Khan Law Firm
Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
📞 +92 91 3043393
📞 +92 315 9260886
📞 +92 317 9637107
🌐 bklawfirm.com.pk
If you believe you may be affected, bring any available documents, including marriage certificates, identity documents, property records, or relevant case references. We will assess your circumstances and advise you regarding the legal options available.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general legal information only and should not be treated as legal advice. Every matter depends on its own facts, applicable law, and documentary evidence. Individuals should consult a qualified advocate for advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
