Black Market Visa Prices Soar in Afghanistan Amid Official Suspension

The price of a Pakistani visa in the black market in Afghanistan has soared to thousands of dollars, compelling some Afghans to pay these exorbitant fees. The primary reason behind this situation is the suspension of visa issuance by the Pakistani embassy.

The Cost of Pakistani Visas Soars in the Black Market

The escalation in the price of Pakistani visas in Afghanistan stems from the suspension of official visa issuance by the embassy of Pakistan. Applicants report that the costs have surged to thousands of dollars, leading some to either pay these steep fees or resort to illegal means to travel to Pakistan.

Roohullah, a young Afghan who needs a visa for an upcoming interview to relocate, shared, “I bought my visa for three and a half thousand dollars.” He noted that, despite the economic difficulties, he had no choice but to pay this amount. He added, “People are struggling; some have interview dates while others are facing health issues.”

Another visa seeker, Mohammad Ilma, echoed similar concerns, stating that he has been stuck in Kabul for two years and cannot afford the high prices in the black market. He also pointed out the exorbitant airfare, saying, “A round-trip ticket from Kabul to Islamabad costs 390 dollars.”

Afghan Travelers Forced into Illegal Travel to Pakistan

With land routes closed, many Afghans have turned to illegal travel. One individual, who requested anonymity, said, “We traveled to Pakistan with smugglers.” This situation, in conjunction with the repeated expulsions of Afghan migrants, has significantly worsened.

Afghan travel organizations have reported that visa prices in the black market have exceeded two thousand dollars, whereas previously, visas were issued for free by the Pakistani embassy. Officials from the Pakistani embassy in Kabul have not commented on this matter.

Additionally, Afghan students in Pakistan are facing serious challenges related to residency and education. The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council had issued an order for Afghan students to leave, but high courts suspended this decision following complaints. Currently, nearly a thousand Afghan students are enrolled in educational institutions in Pakistan.