Iranian Parliament Approves Establishment of National Migration Organization
On Monday, November 2, Iranian lawmakers approved the initial provisions of a bill to establish the National Migration Organization. The new agency is intended to regulate, manage, and oversee the presence of migrants and foreign nationals on Iranian soil.
According to the first article of the bill, the organization’s definitions and overall structure are outlined. The National Migration Organization will be responsible for implementing policies related to migrants, including asylum seekers, refugees, displaced persons, and both legal and undocumented immigrants. A Migration Policy Council will also be established as a key body to coordinate efforts among various government departments and agencies involved in migration matters.
The bill defines an “undocumented immigrant” as someone who has either entered Iran without legal documents or has not left the country after their residency permit expired. It also sets out terms related to residency status, foreign nationals’ identification cards, asylum-seeker detention centers, and designated guest towns for the temporary housing of authorized foreign nationals.
Among the migrant population in Iran, Afghans make up the largest group. Some of them live in the country with unclear legal status. While the bill appears to aim at organizing their presence, it is important to note that the Taliban’s governance in Afghanistan has driven an increase in migration and asylum-seeking. Ongoing repression, conflict, and violations of civil liberties have forced many Afghans to flee their country.
Nevertheless, the Islamic Republic of Iran has so far fallen short in creating safe and humane conditions for many Afghan migrants. Complex regulations and selective enforcement have posed significant barriers to obtaining residency and accessing essential services for this population.
