Author By Sadia Javed,
Advocate High Court & Immigration Lawyer at SJ Law Experts, Islamabad
📌 Office No. 1, First Floor, Al Anayat Mall (above Faysal Bank), G11 Markaz, Islamabad
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +92 3354112288
Introduction
With the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan, numerous Afghan nationals in Pakistan face uncertain futures unable to return home or legally emigrate. Pakistan’s Humanitarian Safe Passage Permit (HSPP), issued through NADRA’s Pakistan Visa Online System, offers a temporary exit route under the Afghan Evacuation and Relocation Program. As an experienced immigration lawyer, I guide applicants through every step—from eligibility and documentation to legal representation and appeal.
What is the HSPP?
The Humanitarian Safe Passage Permit (HSPP) is a temporary, 30-day exit permit granted exclusively to Afghan nationals currently in Pakistan without valid passports or visas. It enables safe transit to a third country through Pakistan’s exit points.
Who is Eligible?
- Eligible individuals include Afghan nationals who:
- Are registered or unregistered Afghan refugees in Pakistan
- Lack valid international passports or visa documentation
- Are part of the Afghan Evacuation and Relocation Program
This permit is not available to other nationalities under the HSPP scheme.
HSPP vs. Regular Exit Permits
The HSPP differs from standard exit permits:
- Exit Permit: For any foreign national whose Pakistani visa has expired, been cancelled, or rejected. Valid for 15 days
- HSPP: Specifically for Afghan nationals without valid documents, valid for 30 days, part of Pakistan’s evacuation program
Duration & Processing Timeline
- Validity: 30 days from issuance
- Processing time: Up to 7 working days, excluding delays if application is returned for updates
Fees and Ministry Charges
The processing fee for the HSPP is in US Dollar and depending on the rates of exchange. This fee may be a significant hurdle for vulnerable applicants needing legal assistance.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following via NADRA’s Pakistan Online Visa System:
Basic personal details
- PoR card, ACC, or other refugee status documents (if available)
- Proof of overstaying or invalid visa/passport status
- Passport-sized photograph
- Any available travel or relocation documentation
Note: Excessive delays or missing documents may reset the 7-day processing clock
How SJ Law Experts Can Help
As a seasoned refugee and immigration advocate, I offer full legal support:
- Eligibility assessment and documentation review
- Online application submission on NADRA portal
- Fee remittance assistance and monitoring
- Follow-up and appeals, if applications are delayed or rejected
- Coordinating with UNHCR / IOM for third-country relocation
Legal Context & Humanitarian Considerations
Pakistan hosts over 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees with PoR cards via NADRA and UNHCR’s DRIVE initiative
Though Pakistan is not a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention, its humanitarian permit shows flexibility in exit solutions
Legal nuances arise around Pakistan Origin Cards (POC) for Afghan spouses and children —Peshawar High Court has relaxed passport/visa conditions
Challenges & Controversies
Exit Fees
Pakistan charges undocumented refugees around $830 widely criticized by UN, Western governments
Fee justified by Pakistani officials as plausible only for resettling refugees, not asylum or deportees
Deportation Risks
- All Afghans without valid visas are expected to exit by 31 March 2025, risking deportation
- Legal representation is advised at each stage to avoid delays or rejections.
Risks & Mitigation
- High fee may block low-income applicants — SJ Law Experts assists fee submissions
- Documentation gaps can cause resets; we ensure completeness
- Potential deportation — your permit protects legal status during transit
- Third-country coordination (e.g., USA, Canada, UK) — we connect you to UN/IOM support
Real-Life Client Experiences (anonymized)
Case 1: An Afghan father without passport applied for HSPP. Our office ensured timely PoR and photo verification. Permit issued in 8 days, family exited safely to Canada.
Case 2: An unregistered Afghan was initially rejected due to lack of PoR proof. We intervened, secured documents from NADRA, and re-submitted within 2 days. Permit issued in 5 days.
The Role of SJ Law Experts
As Advocate High Court and experienced immigration lawyer:
✅ Provide full legal counseling
✅ Manage NADRA online system filings
✅ Liaise with PoR/ACC authorities
✅ Submit appeals, if applications are returned
✅ Train NGOs/UN agencies on HSPP procedure
✅ Offer ongoing guidance until safe departure
The Humanitarian Safe Passage Permit is a lifeline for Afghan nationals in Pakistan seeking safe relocation. With the 30-day validity and rigid fee and documentation requirements, professional legal assistance is critical.
At SJ Law Experts, Islamabad, I support clients through every step from application preparation to departure coordination. Let us help make your journey safer and your transition smoother.
Interested individuals can contact:
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +92 3354112288
✉️ Email: SJLawExperts@gmail.com
📍 Office: Office No. 1, First Floor, Al Anayat Mall (above Faysal Bank), G11 Markaz, Islamabad
