Shafi

Shafi is a young man of just 19 years old from Afghanistan. He approached Asylum Justice for help to be reunited with his parents and two younger brothers, who were stranded in a UNHCR refugee camp in Pakistan. Afghan families living in Pakistan are at constant risk of deportation back to Afghanistan by the authorities, making life precarious and stressful for many. Because Shafi had turned 18 and was considered an adult, the family reunion application had to be made under more complex legal provisions (Adult Dependant Relative and Child Non-Parent Relative) than if he were still a child – provisions which are notoriously difficult to satisfy. 

Asylum Justice advised Shafi of the risks and low chances of success but supported his application due to the strength of his family ties and the impact on his mental health. We submitted the applications in late 2023, supported by psychiatric evidence, witness statements, and records of family communication. Following the Home Office’s rejection, we lodged an appeal, collecting further evidence including letters from Shafi’s younger brothers and witness statements from his parents. A comprehensive evidence bundle was submitted ahead of the hearing in January 2025.   

The appeal was successful, and the Home Office decision was overturned. Shafi’s family were granted entry clearance to the UK. We are continuing to support Shafi with post-arrival logistics, including flight support and integration help, as he is still in college and navigating these challenges alone.   

Shafi said: “I literally don’t know what to say, I don’t know how to thank you. Tears are coming … If I tell this to my mum, you can’t even imagine how happy she’ll be.”