In a landmark decision, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) has ruled that Pakistani women married to Afghan nationals can retain both Pakistani and Afghan citizenship. This applies even if they possess an Afghan Citizens Card (ACC) or Proof of Registration (PoR).
The verdict also clarifies the rights of children born to Pakistani and Afghan parents. Minors can hold dual nationality until they reach 21, after which they can choose one citizenship.
Previously, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) blocked Pakistani women’s CNICs (Computerized National Identity Card) solely based on their presence in Afghan registration databases.
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The court has declared this practice illegal, along with the denial of citizenship documents to children in similar situations. The ruling empowers many families with Afghan connections residing in Pakistan. It provides clear guidelines for obtaining Pakistani citizenship documents and clarifies the rights of dual nationals.
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