Iran Begins Deporting Afghan Migrants Holding Census Cards As Services Are Withdrawn

Iran’s Ministry of Interior has officially commenced the deportation of Afghan migrants holding expired census cards, marking a significant shift in the country’s immigration policy.

Nader Yarahmadi, head of the Centre for Foreign Nationals and Immigrants Affairs, announced the cancellation of these cards and the termination of numerous educational and healthcare services for undocumented migrants.

Yarahmadi called on migrants to leave Iran voluntarily, warning that those who fail to do so may face forced deportation and will be ineligible for any future visa-related benefits. “Individuals without legal documentation will no longer have access to educational and medical services,” he stated. “Their children can only continue their education with valid documents.”

Iranian media, quoting Yarahmadi, reported that the prolonged stay of foreign nationals has sparked growing concern among Iranian citizens. While emphasising that Iran has historically treated migrants humanely, he argued that the time has come to regularise their presence due to mounting pressure on the country’s infrastructure.

The census cards, previously issued to undocumented migrants in exchange for financial deposits, were valid until March and will not be renewed. Many migrants have expressed frustration over the difficulty of reclaiming the deposits they paid for these now-cancelled cards.

Yarahmadi also noted that Iran’s immigration policies are shaped by both domestic needs and ongoing regional crises. However, he stressed that the organisation of undocumented migrants is now a national priority.

He pointed to the strain that the presence of large numbers of migrants has placed on critical public services, including education and healthcare, leading to growing public dissatisfaction.

Meanwhile, images obtained by Afghanistan International reveal the worsening humanitarian situation: thousands of Afghans are reportedly stranded in camps or stuck at immigration offices, struggling to secure exit permits amid the crackdown.