A Simple Guide for Afghan Refugees in Peshawar to Manage Their PoR Cards

Proof of Registration (PoR) Card: Legal Guidance for Afghan Refugees

The Proof of Registration (PoR) card is an important document for Afghan refugees living in Pakistan. It helps you stay legally in the country and access basic services. Below is a simple guide to help you understand and manage your PoR card.

What is the PoR Card?

The PoR card is an ID card for Afghan refugees.
It allows you to live in Pakistan legally.
You must carry it with you all the time and show it to the police if asked.
It is not a travel document and cannot be used to cross borders.
The card does not protect you if you break the law.

How to Verify Your PoR Card

You need to verify your PoR card to use it for services like opening a bank account, renting a house, or getting a SIM card.

Steps to verify your card:

Visit an Advice and Legal Aid Centre (ALAC).
Share your PoR card number with ALAC staff.
ALAC will work with NADRA to verify your card.

The process takes about one week.

What to Do If You Lose Your PoR Card

If your card is lost or stolen, act quickly to get a replacement.

File a Police Report (FIR):
- Go to the nearest police station.
- File an FIR with your name, PoR card number, and other details.
Get a Verification Letter:
- ALAC can help you get a letter from the Ministry for Refugees and Repatriation (MoRR).
Apply for a New Card:
- Take the FIR and the MoRR letter to a NADRA Proof of Registration Card Modification (PCM) center.
- Apply for a duplicate card.

You must visit the PCM center in person. The new card will be ready in two weeks.

How to Update or Fix Your PoR Card

If your card has incorrect information or needs updates, you can get it fixed.

Steps to update your card:

Go to a PCM center and explain the changes you need.
Provide any required documents, like an FIR if your card was lost.
Collect the updated card within two weeks.

To check the status, send your PoR card number by SMS to 7000.

PoR Cards for Children

Children aged five or older can get their own PoR cards if they are registered under their parents.

Steps to get a child’s PoR card:

A parent with a valid PoR card must take the child to a PCM center.
The child’s photo and fingerprints will be taken.
The parent’s card will also be updated.

What If Your Card is Expired?

Cards that expired before December 31, 2012, are no longer valid.
You cannot use these cards to access any services.

For Afghans Without a PoR Card

If you never had a PoR card, you cannot apply for one now.
You can wait for the government’s registration drive for undocumented Afghans.
If returning to Afghanistan is unsafe, you can apply for refugee status with UNHCR.

Legal Tips for PoR Cardholders

Keep a Copy: Always keep a photocopy of your PoR card at home.
Use ALAC Services: ALAC can help with verification, updates, and lost cards.
Stay Updated: Follow news from the Government of Pakistan or UNHCR about refugee programs.

Conclusion

The PoR card is your legal proof of being a refugee in Pakistan. It protects your rights and helps you access essential services. If you face any issues, follow the steps outlined above or contact ALAC or a lawyer for help.

For further legal assistance, you can contact Advocate Muhammad Amin at 0313-9708019. He is available to guide you through the process and protect your legal rights.