A proposal to extend the legal stay of Afghan refugees holding Proof of Residence (PoR) cards in Pakistan by six months has been forwarded to the federal cabinet for final approval, official sources confirmed.
The recommendation emerged from a high-level meeting that focused on the repatriation of Afghan refugees. Attended by representatives from the Ministry of States and Frontier Regions (Safron), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Ministry of Interior, and security agencies, the meeting reviewed the challenges faced by refugees with PoR status.
Officials deliberated on both three- and six-month extensions, ultimately leaning toward the latter. The recommendation, now headed to the cabinet, is aimed at providing transitional relief to thousands of Afghans who have spent years—many their entire lives—in Pakistan.
The meeting was informed that a large number of Afghan nationals were born in Pakistan and have since established businesses and property in the country. Authorities noted that these individuals require additional time to settle affairs, including disposing of property and winding down business operations before repatriation.
If approved, the extension would offer critical breathing space to PoR card holders as Pakistan navigates complex regional and humanitarian dynamics.
