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In recent years, the question of whether refugees—particularly those from Afghanistan, Myanmar (Rohingya), and other conflict-affected regions—can legally obtain Pakistani nationality has gained significant attention. Pakistan, as a host country to one of the largest refugee populations in the world, faces complex legal and humanitarian challenges. This blog provides a comprehensive and updated analysis of what Pakistani law says about granting citizenship to refugees, especially in the context of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), where a large number of Afghan refugees reside.
We’ll walk you through the eligibility criteria, legal framework, application process, required documentation, and the role of relevant authorities. This article aims to clarify misconceptions and offer practical guidance to both refugees and legal professionals.
The principal law governing nationality in Pakistan is the Pakistan Citizenship Act, 1951. Under this law, citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, migration, or naturalization. However, the Act does not have a dedicated section for refugees, making the process of acquiring nationality more complex for displaced individuals.
That said, Section 9 of the Pakistan Citizenship Act allows for citizenship through naturalization—a provision that may be applicable to certain refugees under specific conditions. Naturalization is a discretionary process and requires approval from the Federal Government.
Before diving into the citizenship process, it’s essential to distinguish between refugees and immigrants. Refugees are protected under international conventions and local agreements but do not automatically qualify for nationality. Many Afghan refugees in Pakistan hold Proof of Registration (PoR) Cards issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) but do not have Pakistani CNICs.
Only individuals with legal residence status and long-term stay permits may be considered for nationality through naturalization.
Although refugees are not directly addressed in the Pakistan Citizenship Act, certain individuals may still apply if they meet the naturalization requirements, including:
Please note: Holding a refugee card or PoR card alone does not count as legal residence for the purpose of naturalization.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which hosts millions of Afghan refugees, provincial authorities have limited power in granting nationality. However, they may issue recommendations or clearances for federal processing. While many Afghan families have lived in Pakistan for decades, the process for nationality remains restricted unless the federal government grants an exception or amnesty. In some cases, marriage to a Pakistani citizen, or birth in Pakistan before 1972, may provide alternate grounds for applying for nationality.
In some cases, marriage to a Pakistani citizen, or birth in Pakistan before 1972, may provide alternate grounds for applying for nationality.