In a significant policy shift, Pakistan has officially banned providing accommodation, employment, business property, and hotel stays to illegal Afghan immigrants. The decision was declared by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry during a press briefing in Islamabad, highlighting a firm stance against illegal immigration.
Chaudhary made it clear that there would be “zero tolerance” for Afghan nationals staying in Pakistan without having valid passports and visas. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against individuals or businesses found facilitating undocumented migrants—whether via
- Providing jobs
- Renting properties
- Offering any form of support
Deportations Underway Since April
According to the Interior Ministry, the crackdown has already gained momentum. Since April 1, 2025, Pakistan has deported 84,869 Afghan nationals, including 25,320 who held Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC) and 59,549 who lacked any valid documentation.
In total, since the implementation of Pakistan’s “one-document policy,” more than 907,000 Afghan nationals have been deported. The government has established special transit centers for those awaiting deportation, where basic services such as shelter, medical aid, transportation, and security are being provided.
Read more: Pakistan confirms no extension to April 30 deadline for Afghan refugees
Legal Ramifications for Those Who Assist
Chaudhry emphasized that any Pakistani citizen found renting out residential, commercial, or hotel space to undocumented Afghan immigrants will face legal consequences. Similarly, employers offering jobs or movable/immovable property to such individuals will also be prosecuted under the new policy.
International Concerns and Human Rights Warnings
This tough policy has sparked concern from international human rights organizations. UN experts have urged Pakistan to reconsider, depicting the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Afghanistan. They also stated that many deported Afghans could encounter various things, such as
- Gender-based violence
- Persecution
- Collapse of basic rights, especially for women and girls
They have given the warning that such deportations may violate international refugee and human rights laws, specifically the principle of non-refoulement, which stops returning masses to countries where they face serious threats.
The UN has called on Pakistan to halt arrests, forced evictions, and deportations, and to collaborate with the global community in finding long-term, humane solutions for displaced Afghan nationals.