This is a guide on matters related to the situation of U.S. case holders in Pakistan, which was developed in Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) format. In this guide, we address common queries and concerns about the U.S. case holder's Situation in Pakistan, aiming to provide clarity and guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of the situation. This information is based on the understanding of the "Beporsed" team from various sources and is not legal advice. This guide is updated on 5th February 2024. For legal guidance and advice, we recommend consulting official sources. The situation for Afghans who are following their U.S. visa cases in Pakistan presents numerous challenges and uncertainties. One significant issue is the workload at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, which is leading to delays in processing visa applications and scheduling interview appointments. Many Afghan SIV and USRAP applicants have reported waiting periods of nearly a year or more for interview appointments and lack of RCS, adding to the frustration and anxiety of those awaiting visa decisions. Moreover, there is a risk of deportation for Afghans in Pakistan, and instances of arbitrary detention by local authorities without cause have been reported.
Join us as we navigate the essential questions surrounding the U.S. case holder's Situation in Pakistan, empowering individuals with knowledge and support on their journey to resettlement.
What is the situation in Pakistan for Afghans who follow their U.S. cases there?
The situation for Afghans who are following their U.S. visa cases in Pakistan presents numerous challenges and uncertainties. One significant issue is the workload on the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, leading to delays in processing visa applications and scheduling interview appointments. Many Afghan SIV applicants have reported waiting periods of nearly a year or more for interview appointments, adding to the frustration and anxiety of those awaiting visa decisions.
Additionally, the lack of Regional Consular Services (RCS) centers in Pakistan further complicates the process of USRAP-related cases, as applicants may need to travel long distances to access necessary services and resources. Moreover, there is a risk of deportation for Afghans in Pakistan, and instances of arbitrary detention by local authorities without cause have been reported.
Visa issues, including difficulties in obtaining hotel bookings required for visa interviews, further exacerbate the challenges faced by Afghan visa applicants in Pakistan. Despite these obstacles, many Afghans persevere in their pursuit of refuge and safety through the U.S. visa process, navigating complex procedures and enduring prolonged waiting periods with resilience and determination.
How can I contact CARE in Pakistan?
If you or someone you know is in Pakistan and under CARE support, You can reach CARE through the following channels:
- Voice: +1 833-839-0375
- WhatsApp messaging: +1 678-916-5522
Additionally, if you need to send documents to CARE, you can do so by emailing them to CARETravelData@state.gov. Be sure to include your location in the email as soon as possible for timely assistance.
It's essential for Afghans impacted by Pakistan’s deportation policy to understand that their physical location does not affect their case status with CARE. If individuals in the US immigration pipeline, either through the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) or US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) process, are forced to return to Afghanistan, their case will remain active with CARE.
If there are any changes to your location, it's crucial to update CARE promptly by emailing CARETravelData@state.gov with your new location.
What should I do if I or someone I know is being arrested, detained, deported, or impacted by Pakistan’s deportation policy?
If you or someone you know is facing potential arrest, detention, or deportation in Pakistan, it's essential to take immediate action to protect yourself or your loved ones. Here are the steps you can take:
- Afghans in Pakistan should carry both digital and physical copies of their important documents at all times. Keep physical copies in a separate location from the originals to ensure accessibility if stopped by authorities.
- Afghans under CARE support should reach out to the CARE contact center immediately if detained. Contact details include a voice number: +18338390375, and WhatsApp messaging: +16789165522.
- If individuals are in the US immigration pipeline (SIV or USRAP process) and are forced to return to Afghanistan, their case will remain active with CARE. Notify CARETravelData@state.gov of any change in location promptly.
- For those pursuing P1/P2 programs, contact the International Organization for Migration (IOM) at PIC@iom.int regarding the new location. It's crucial to inform both CARE and IOM.
- Individuals facing imminent protection threats or safety concerns can contact UNHCR’s protection helpline. Contact details and operating hours are available at https://help.unhcr.org/pakistan/contact/. Individuals holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, Afghan Citizenship Cards (ACC), or those registered with UNHCR for asylum before February 2022 may receive immediate support.
- Adhere to the instructions provided by Pakistani law enforcement if detained. Cooperation with authorities can help ensure safety and appropriate legal processes.
How do I contact the Islamabad Embassy?
To contact the Islamabad Embassy, you can use the following email addresses:
For immigrant visa (IV) inquiries: islamabadivinquiry@state.gov
For Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) inquiries: islamabadafghansiv@state.gov
It's important to note that you should only reach out to the embassy if your case is interview-ready and has been assigned an ISL (Islamabad) number. This indicates that your case has been transferred from KBL (Kabul) to ISL for further processing. Contacting the embassy at the appropriate stage of your case ensures that you receive timely and relevant assistance.
Whether you're inquiring about immigrant visas or SIVs, make sure to provide accurate and detailed information about your case to facilitate the embassy's response. Additionally, check your spam or junk email folder regularly, as embassy emails may sometimes be filtered into these folders.
Should I keep my original immigration/identity documents on me at all times in Pakistan ?
It is advisable to keep paper copies of all your important documents, including your visa, passport, and other immigration-related papers, with you at all times in Pakistan. Additionally, it's wise to have digital copies stored on your phone. However, it's crucial to keep the original documents separate from the copies and avoid carrying them on your person.
In the event of an emergency or if you need to provide identification or immigration documents, having both physical and digital copies readily available can be immensely helpful. These copies can expedite processes such as seeking assistance from authorities, accessing services, or proving your identity if required.
Keeping the original documents in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet at home, reduces the risk of loss, theft, or damage. If you need to carry the originals for a specific purpose, ensure they are stored securely and consider returning them to a safe location as soon as possible.
I am a U.S. case holder. Do I need to pay for my medical exam in Islamabad?
Yes, applicants are required to self-pay for their U.S. immigrant visa medical exams in Islamabad, as well as in other locations worldwide (except for U.S. refugee camps). The cost of the medical exam can vary and is typically outlined on the US Embassy in Islamabad's website. In Islamabad, the current fees are 37,000 Pakistani Rupees for adults and 57,000 Rupees for children under the age of 16. The higher fee for children accounts for additional vaccination requirements.
It's essential to note that if proof of vaccination cannot be provided or authenticated, individuals may need to undergo re-vaccination, which could incur additional costs. However, in certain circumstances, organizations such as CARE or IOM may cover the expenses for medical tests, particularly in emergency cases.
For detailed information about the medical exam process, including any updates or specific requirements, applicants should refer to the official resources provided by the US Embassy in Islamabad or consult with relevant organizations involved in immigration assistance such as CARE or IOM.
Will the US government pay for my accommodations, food, etc. while my visa is being processed in Pakistan?
No, the U.S. Government does not provide financial support for individuals waiting for their visas to be processed in Pakistan or anywhere else, unless they were specifically relocated by the U.S. government, such as through programs like CARE. If individuals relocate independently or with the assistance of an organization not affiliated with the U.S. government, they are responsible for covering their own expenses during the visa processing period.
It's crucial for individuals to be prepared to support themselves financially during this time, as visa processing can often take several months, a year or longer. Expenses such as accommodations, food, transportation, and other necessities should be budgeted for accordingly. Additionally, individuals should consider having a contingency plan in place in case unexpected delays or challenges arise during the visa application process.
For those who have been relocated by the U.S. government or are unsure about their eligibility for financial assistance, it's recommended to seek guidance from the relevant authorities or organizations involved in their relocation process.
Should I transfer my SIV case to the US Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan?
Deciding whether to transfer your SIV case to the US Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, is a personal decision that depends on various factors. One crucial consideration is the current situation and visa processing times.
If you decide to transfer your case to Islamabad, please note that all costs and responsibilities, including travel to Pakistan, accommodation, three meals a day, and medical tests are your responsibility. In these situations, the US government usually does not help and cooperate. So, to transfer the case to Pakistan, first make sure that you can afford the living expenses of about one year in Pakistan (12000-15000 estimated).
In some cases, it has been seen that applicants have transferred their cases to Islamabad, faced problems in obtaining visa, and then the CARE team helped them in the relocation to Pakistan. The CARE team now has the capability to obtain a Pakistan visa within one week, which can significantly expedite the process for those considering transferring their case, but do not make the decision to transfer your case to Islamabad on this basis, because CARE assistance is not guaranteed.
It's important to note that the timing of interview appointments and transfers is interconnected. When your turn for transfer arrives and you have an Islamabad appointment, the CARE team will make a decision regarding obtaining a Pakistan visa and facilitating your transfer to Pakistan. Alternatively, they may opt to transfer your interview location to another embassy, such as Doha or TIA, depending on the circumstances and available options.
Ultimately, individuals should carefully weigh the pros and cons of transferring their SIV case, considering factors such as visa processing times, embassy appointments, and personal circumstances. It's advisable to stay informed about the latest updates and guidance from the CARE team to make an informed decision regarding case transfer.
I am in Afghanistan, but I have transferred my case to Pakistan. What should I do, and how should I go to the interview myself?
If you have transferred your case to Pakistan from Afghanistan, it's essential to consider the implications and make an informed decision regarding attending the interview. Here are some considerations and advice:
- Personal travel to Pakistan can incur substantial expenses, and there's a risk of encountering difficulties during medical examinations or administrative processes, which could further strain your finances.
- If you have already transferred your case to Pakistan, it's advisable to wait in Afghanistan until it's your turn for the transfer process. Going to Pakistan prematurely may incur unnecessary expenses.
- Utilize the services provided by organizations like the CARE Team for the transfer process. They can facilitate the subsequent steps of your case smoothly and efficiently.
- Arrive in Pakistan a few days before the interview. Obtain a Pakistani SIM card for communication and install a transportation facility app such as the InDrive application for transportation.
- Visit the central police station upon arrival to register yourself. Ensure you have relevant documents such as a hotel booking form, passport, and visa for registration.
- Consider seeking advice from trusted sources or individuals who have gone through a similar process. Ultimately, weigh the potential risks and benefits carefully before making a decision.
- Ask Task Force Islamabad and CARE to cooperate in your transfer from your place of residence to the embassy.
- If not transported by Task Force Islamabad or the relevant embassy, plan to arrive at the embassy early. Be prepared to pay for transportation services to the embassy gate and have all necessary documents ready.
- Answer interview questions calmly and confidently. If an interpreter is needed, the embassy may provide one or seek assistance from fellow interviewees.
- After the interview, transportation will be arranged back to the shuttle service gate.
- Ask Task Force Islamabad (Task Force Islamabad) and CARE to cooperate in conducting medical tests.
- Be aware of the risks associated with personal travel to Pakistan, including the possibility of document loss or harassment by authorities. Such incidents could have long-term consequences for your case and well-being.
I got a US visa; how should I book air tickets from Pakistan to the U.S.?
When booking air tickets from Pakistan to the US, there are several important points to consider:
- If you request tickets from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), they may book your ticket within 20 to 60 days after your request. However, the cost of these tickets will need to be reimbursed within three years. IOM also coordinates with immigration agencies, which can affect the timing of your ticket booking.
- If you want to travel without IOM assistance, then you need to precure tickets for your travel. Some states in the US are more accommodating to new immigrants, while others have limited capacity or high demand.
- Ticket prices from Pakistan to the US can vary based on factors like departure city, destination, and time of booking. Generally, tickets from Islamabad may be cheaper than from Kabul, but prices fluctuating based on demand and availability.
- Booking tickets in advance or for dates further out can often result in lower prices compared to last-minute bookings. Additionally, flights with multiple stopovers may be more affordable than direct flights.
- Airlines typically offer remarkable discounts for children under 12 years old, which can help reduce overall travel costs for families.
- Utilize the websites of travel agencies to compare ticket prices and find the best deals. It's also advisable to check airline websites directly for any promotions or discounts.
- Ticket prices and availability can change frequently, so it's essential to stay updated on the latest information from reliable sources and experienced travelers.
I got a US visa. How do I contact IOM for assurance and a flight to the United States? How long does it typically take them to respond?
To request assurance and a flight to the United States for resettlement, SIV holders with valid visas should email SIV_OPE@iom.int. In the email, they should include copies of all their SI or SQ visas, a signed refugee benefits form, and a completed DS-234 form. If they plan to join friends or family in the US, they should indicate this on the last page of the DS-234, ensuring that all contact information is accurate.
It's important to note that there may be restrictions on resettlement cities due to housing costs and limited agency capacity. Therefore, individuals should be prepared to provide alternative state options in case their first choice is not available.
Once the necessary documents are submitted, IOM will collaborate with US resettlement agencies to secure an assurance for the family. This assurance confirms placement with a specific agency in a resettlement state. Following assurance, IOM will arrange the family's flight to the designated state.
The duration of this process can vary based on factors such as the time of year, family size, and medical needs. Therefore, individuals should be patient and prepared for potential delays.
I am traveling from Pakistan to my destination, will I be issued an exit permit?
If you're traveling from Pakistan to another destination, obtaining an exit permit is a crucial step. Here are important considerations to ensure a smooth process:
- Ensure you possess a valid passport and a Pakistan visa, indicating legal entry into the country. While children under 12 may be exceptions, they still require a passport for exit permits.
- There are two types of exit permits in Islamabad: normal and manual. The normal exit permit is for individuals who have registered with the police and are leaving within 60 days of arrival.
- If your stay exceeds 60 days, you'll need to apply for an exit permit online through the Ministry of Interior.
- For some adults who do not have an up-to-date Pakistan visa and children with passports, they may need a normal exit permit, in both cases a fine of $840 must be paid.
- If you're coordinating with Task Force Islamabad for travel arrangements, they may assist in obtaining the exit permit. Task Force Islamabad may cover registration fees and fines associated with the permit.
- Keep abreast of the latest exit permit regulations, as government laws in Pakistan can change frequently. Stay updated on document requirements and any procedural changes to avoid challenges during departure.
Ask for help from "Beporsed"
For those Afghans seeking specific information, "Beporsed" is here to help. You can reach our information center through WhatsApp (+93729807235), Facebook Messenger, or our website's Messenger to ask our online information desk officer for assistance.
For more information
For more information on immigration, resettlement, education and scholarship programs, and other opportunities available to Afghans worldwide, as well as details on the humanitarian services provided by international organizations in Afghanistan and procedures for obtaining civil documents from governmental institutions, please visit Beporsed's website and social media pages.
✓ Beporsed website (www.beporsed.org)