Germany’s Federal Ministry of the Interior has announced that Afghan passports extended by means of an extension sticker after 1 August 2026 will no longer be recognized as valid in the country. Under the new directive, such passports will not be accepted for residence-related matters or administrative procedures in Germany.
The ministry emphasized that the decision applies only to passports extended after the specified date. It does not mean that all Afghan passports will become invalid.
According to the directive, individuals whose passports have already been extended, or who obtain an extension before 1 August 2026, may continue to use their passports under certain conditions. However, the validity of those passports will remain subject to the regulations and criteria established by the German Federal Police.
German authorities have also advised Afghan nationals residing in Germany that if their passports carry an extension sticker or are approaching their expiration date, they should apply for new passports through legal channels to avoid problems with their residency status or administrative procedures.
The Federal Ministry of the Interior said the decision was prompted by changes in passport issuance procedures, considerations under international law, and recommendations issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Under the new directive, only passports issued through lawful procedures and in compliance with the applicable regulations will continue to be recognized by the German government.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
