Visa uncertainty leaves Afghan students stranded

LAHORE: King Edward Medical University has directed Afghan students, doctors and other Afghan nationals living in its hostels to leave within 48 hours if they do not obtain an extension of their visas.

The instruction was issued by the office of the chief warden of the boys and girls hostels. It tells all Afghan nationals staying in university accommodation to vacate the premises if their visas are not extended by the government. Hostel wardens and assistant wardens were also told to ensure the order is implemented immediately.

Students cite pending renewal applications

The move is significant for Afghan students pursuing medical education, as hostel accommodation is closely tied to their ability to attend clinical rotations, perform emergency duties and sit examinations at teaching hospitals. The development suggests universities are being required to verify the legal status of foreign students residing on campus.

Officials said universities had been instructed to ensure foreign nationals in hostels hold valid immigration documents. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:"Educational institutions are expected to comply with government regulations. Hostel accommodation cannot be allowed where immigration status is no longer valid."

Several Afghan students studying in Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi said they had applied for visa renewals before their documents expired but were still waiting for immigration authorities to process those applications. They said the delays had left them in an uncertain legal position despite remaining regularly enrolled at their universities.

"We entered Pakistan legally and have continued our education according to university rules. If visa renewals remain pending due to administrative delays, students should not be penalised," an Afghan medical student said.

Wider verification drive

Student representatives from universities in Islamabad and Karachi said a number of Afghan students were continuing to attend classes while awaiting decisions from immigration authorities. While similar hostel eviction notices have not surfaced on a broad scale, universities have reportedly stepped up checks of immigration documents in recent months.

The directive comes as authorities have tightened enforcement measures against undocumented foreign nationals. Government officials say the policy is aimed only at those who do not have valid legal status, but its implementation could also affect students whose renewal applications are still under review.

Education experts have warned that delays in visa processing could interfere with academic programmes, especially in medical education where attendance rules are strict and clinical training cannot be easily deferred. A senior Punjab Health Department official said: "Universities are obliged to comply with immigration laws but there should also be coordination between educational institutions and immigration authorities so that genuine students with pending visa extensions are not forced to interrupt their studies."

"A temporary mechanism for students awaiting renewal decisions could prevent unnecessary disruption," he added.