KARACHI, Jan 2: The National Aliens’ Registration Authority (Nara) has launched its operation from January 1, 2002.

By the process of registration, it is providing amnesty and giving an opportunity to the aliens to legalize their stay in Pakistan, whereby a registered alien will not be prosecuted under the Foreigners’ Act.

The registration is open to all nationalities, including Bengalis, Sri Lankans, Burmese, Iranians, Afghans etc, besides those refugees who have left their camps and residing in Karachi and its surrounding areas, at a nominal fee.

For this purpose, Nara has developed a one-page form, which is available at its office, located at C-82, Block 2, Clifton, Karachi. The form requires details like address, period of stay in Pakistan, country of origin, number of family members etc.

Those aliens who are employed/self-employed may seek work permit by giving details of address of workplace.

The employers, who have alien employees, may also apply for registration/work permit.

The scheme of registration will be voluntary. However, any alien found without registration will be prosecuted under the Foreigners’ Act, which envisages ten years’ imprisonment with a fine of Rs10,000.

Those who are giving employment to the aliens without registration will also be prosecuted under the law with three years’ imprisonment and Rs3000 fine.—APP