Due to unprecedented restrictions in obtaining visas and issues arising from relations with the Taliban, Afghans are now compelled to file complaints to retrieve their work visa fees. This situation stems from ambiguity in relations with the Taliban administration and security concerns that have trapped many Afghans in a "geographical prison."
Challenges in Obtaining Visas for Afghans
Many Afghans have lost the opportunity for travel, education, and medical treatment due to the current conditions. Some have not succeeded in obtaining a visa to a foreign country after five years of effort. A source in Kabul states, "Visas are completely stuck everywhere."
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Pakistan, as one of the important destinations for Afghans' medical and business travels, is currently facing even greater difficulties in issuing visas. An Afghan family in Islamabad says that their efforts to extend their visa have been fruitless since January 2025.
Restrictions and Their Consequences
Mohammad Ismail, one of the sources in Kabul, reports on the difficulties in issuing visas for Afghans and says, "In the past, some Afghans could obtain a visa to Pakistan by paying money, but now this route has largely closed as well." This situation is particularly concerning for Afghans who have previously lived in Pakistan. After the fall of the Republic of Afghanistan, Mohammad Ismail moved his family to Islamabad so that his daughters could receive an education, but now they are forced to return to Afghanistan.
In these circumstances, visa restrictions in other countries like Iran and India have also sharply increased. Iran has severely restricted visa issuance to Afghans, and many Afghans who go to this country do not return. Now, visas to Iran are issued in very limited numbers, and costs have significantly increased.
Afghans in Central Asian countries are also facing similar problems. Fereydoun, an Afghan businessman, states that obtaining a visa for his family members has become strangely difficult, and even Kazakhstan and Russia have severely restricted visa issuance.
These restrictions not only harm the normal lives of Afghans but also hinder their access to healthcare and educational services. Living in poor conditions and the inability to travel to neighboring countries has created many challenges for Afghans.
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