KEMU Afghan Students Told to Vacate Hostels Without Visa Extension
King Edward Medical University (KEMU) has ordered KEMU Afghan students living in university hostels to leave within 48 hours if they do not have valid visa extensions. The order also covers Afghan doctors and other hostel residents. University officials say they are following government rules on foreign nationals. However, many students say they submitted renewal applications before their visas expired. They now fear delays could affect their education.
Universities enforce visa rules
The Office of the Chief Warden issued the notice to all Afghan hostel residents. Wardens and assistant wardens must ensure full compliance. Officials said universities must verify the immigration status of foreign students. Therefore, institutions cannot provide hostel accommodation to people without valid documents.
A senior official said educational institutions must follow government regulations. The official added that universities have no choice but to enforce the policy. Meanwhile, officials continue to check immigration records of foreign students living in hostels.
Several Afghan students say they applied for visa renewals on time. However, immigration authorities have not processed their applications yet. As a result, many students remain in legal uncertainty despite staying enrolled.
Students fear academic disruption
Medical students say hostel accommodation is essential for daily training. They need it for clinical rotations, emergency duties and examinations. Without housing, they may miss compulsory classes and hospital work.
One Afghan student said they entered Pakistan legally and followed every university rule. The student urged authorities not to punish applicants waiting for renewal decisions.
Student representatives in Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi reported similar concerns. Although other universities have not issued large-scale eviction notices, they have increased document checks.
Education experts have called for better coordination between universities and immigration authorities. They say temporary relief for students with pending visa applications would protect their studies. At the same time, such a measure would support compliance with Pakistan’s immigration laws and prevent unnecessary disruption to medical education.
