Pakistan has announced a nationwide crackdown on Afghan nationals residing in the country without valid visas, directing law enforcement agencies to begin strict enforcement measures from July 10, 2026. The move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen immigration control, improve national security, and accelerate the repatriation of undocumented foreign nationals.
According to an official directive issued by the Ministry of Interior, provincial governments, the administrations of Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan have been instructed to identify, arrest, and process Afghan nationals found living in Pakistan without legal documentation. Authorities have also been asked to expedite deportation and repatriation procedures in accordance with existing immigration laws.
The ministry further directed all law enforcement agencies to submit daily reports beginning July 11, detailing the number of undocumented Afghan nationals identified, actions taken against them, and their current legal or deportation status. Officials say the reporting mechanism is intended to ensure effective monitoring and implementation of the government’s immigration policy.
The directive follows heightened security concerns after the recent terrorist attack on a Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) facility in Karachi, where security personnel successfully foiled the assault. Following the incident, Pakistani authorities stated that investigations into cross-border terrorism and illegal infiltration would continue alongside strengthened border management measures.
Pakistan has also raised its security concerns through diplomatic channels. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Afghan Charge d’Affaires and delivered an official protest regarding the Karachi attack. A similar diplomatic communication was also conveyed by Pakistan’s ambassador in Kabul.
Government officials maintain that the latest immigration enforcement campaign is aimed at ensuring compliance with Pakistan’s visa regulations while protecting national security. Authorities have urged all foreign nationals residing in Pakistan to maintain valid travel documents and comply with the country’s immigration laws to avoid legal action.
The nationwide operation is expected to continue as Pakistan intensifies efforts to improve border security, strengthen law enforcement coordination, and ensure that all foreign residents remain in the country through legal immigration channels.
