Pakistan Introduces New NOC Requirement for Afghan Nationals

News Desk

Islamabad: In a move aimed at enhancing national security and sovereignty, Pakistani authorities have announced that Afghan nationals will be required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to reside in Islamabad after 2024.

This new regulation is designed to strengthen oversight of foreign nationals, ensuring that their presence aligns with national laws.

The introduction of the NOC requirement comes as part of broader efforts to address security challenges, particularly following several high-profile incidents involving Afghan nationals, including the tragic Army Public School (APS) attack and other violent acts linked to individuals from Afghanistan.

These incidents have raised concerns about the potential for terrorism and criminal activity within the country.

Local authorities emphasized that the NOC would improve identification and regulation of foreign nationals, especially those potentially involved in organized crime or extremist networks. Intelligence reports have suggested that some Afghan nationals may be linked to terrorist groups and smuggling operations, further motivating the introduction of this measure.

The move follows last year’s deportation of illegal Afghan immigrants and is seen as a step toward more effective control over immigration while ensuring the safety and stability of Pakistan.

By enforcing the NOC policy, Pakistan aims to strike a balance between fulfilling its humanitarian commitments to Afghan refugees and safeguarding its national security interests.

With growing concerns over cross-border terrorism, this policy represents Pakistan’s efforts to address evolving security threats while maintaining the integrity of its borders.