Iran’s Interior Ministry has issued a directive detailing new conditions under which Afghan nationals holding residency booklets may access services, the government’s migration center announced Saturday.
The circular outlines three distinct categories and mandates that all sponsorship offices apply the rules “immediately and without discretion,” according to Iranian media.
Under the first category, Afghan nationals who have been fingerprinted but were never formally registered may now receive a dedicated identification code and education certificates. The second category refers to those with no registration history, who will be identified through a special system and then granted residency services. The final category covers those previously registered: only individuals entered into the system before mid‑September are eligible for benefits, while others in this group are barred from receiving further services.
Authorities say the directive was prompted by reports of inconsistent application of regulations in kafalat offices and of some applicants being denied services.
The new policy comes amid mounting pressure on the Afghan migrant population in Iran — which continues to face large‑scale expulsions and restrictions despite holding legal documents.
