Breaking News: FIA Confirms No New Rules for Pakistanis Traveling Abroad on Work Visas – Inquiry Launched into Airport Offloading Cases
In a big relief for overseas jobseekers, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has clarified that no new travel restrictions or affidavit conditions have been introduced for Pakistanis traveling abroad on work visas. This comes after several rumors surfaced online about new verification requirements and alleged offloading incidents at airports.
During a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the FIA’s Director General, Riffat Mukhtar, assured that all reports of offloading are being thoroughly investigated and that any officials involved in misconduct will face strict disciplinary action.
The clarification aims to protect genuine overseas workers, restore confidence in Pakistan’s emigration process, and eliminate confusion among thousands of citizens preparing to travel abroad for employment.
No New Affidavit or Approval Required for Work Visa Holders
The FIA categorically denied the rumors claiming that Pakistani workers must submit an affidavit signed by a Grade-18 or Grade-19 officer declaring they would not enter Europe illegally.
Officials confirmed that no such requirement exists and that all travelers holding valid work visas and protectorate certificates can proceed freely through immigration.
This announcement follows days of uncertainty for laborers, engineers, and skilled professionals who feared their travel plans could be disrupted due to new, unofficial requirements.
“We want to assure all overseas workers that there are no new conditions, affidavits, or additional verifications for those traveling with valid documents,” DG Riffat Mukhtar stated.
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Inquiry Ordered into Offloading Incidents
During the same meeting, DG Mukhtar informed the minister that isolated incidents of workers being offloaded at Lahore and Karachi airports had been reported. These incidents allegedly involved immigration officers stopping passengers without clear justification.
An internal inquiry has now been launched to determine whether any FIA officials acted beyond their authority.
“If any FIA officials are found guilty of misconduct or harassment, strict action will be taken,” he confirmed.
This move aims to reinforce accountability and ensure fair treatment for all passengers traveling abroad through legal means.
Minister Salik Hussain’s Directives to FIA
Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasized the importance of protecting overseas Pakistanis, calling them the “backbone of the national economy.” He noted that remittances from expatriates contribute billions of dollars annually, supporting families and stabilizing Pakistan’s foreign reserves.
The minister instructed the FIA to:
- Resolve all pending complaints of unlawful offloading.
- Facilitate workers holding valid visas and protectorate certificates.
- Coordinate closely with the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE).
- Ensure no misuse of authority at airports.
He also directed airport officials to treat all passengers respectfully, especially those departing for jobs in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
Background: Why This Clarification Was Needed
Pakistan sends hundreds of thousands of workers abroad every year under legal employment contracts, especially to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Malaysia. These workers form a major part of the country’s foreign exchange inflow.
In recent weeks, rumors circulated that travelers were being offloaded for lacking a new affidavit, creating panic among aspiring workers and overseas employment promoters.
Social media posts wrongly claimed that workers required a government-officer-signed guarantee against illegal migration. The FIA’s latest clarification officially debunks those claims, reaffirming that no new affidavit or approval has been introduced.
FIA’s Clarification: Key Points at a Glance
| Issue | FIA’s Clarification (2025) |
|---|---|
| Affidavit Requirement | No affidavit is required for workers traveling abroad. |
| Affected Travelers | Only those attempting illegal migration are questioned. |
| Airports Under Review | Lahore and Karachi airports identified. |
| Action on Misconduct | Strict disciplinary measures for guilty officials. |
| Authority Statement | DG Riffat Mukhtar and Minister Salik Hussain confirmed. |
| Protection for Workers | All legal travelers will face no restrictions. |
What Pakistanis Traveling Abroad Should Know
To avoid confusion or delay at airports, all outbound workers are advised to follow these steps before traveling:
- Ensure your work visa is genuine and valid.
- Carry your Protectorate Certificate from the Bureau of Emigration.
- Keep photocopies of your CNIC, passport, visa, and employment contract.
- Arrive early at the airport to complete security and immigration checks.
- Report immediately if you face any unlawful offloading or harassment by officials.
- Avoid middlemen or agents who spread misinformation or demand bribes.
By following these guidelines, overseas workers can ensure smooth departure without unnecessary complications.
Impact on Overseas Pakistanis and National Economy
The government’s prompt clarification is seen as a positive step toward protecting the rights of overseas workers and promoting legal emigration channels.
Overseas employment contributes significantly to Pakistan’s economy:
- More than 9 million Pakistanis live abroad.
- Annual remittances exceed $30 billion.
- Major destinations: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain.
By maintaining transparent procedures and discouraging illegal migration, the FIA aims to build international trust and enhance Pakistan’s reputation as a responsible labor-exporting country.
Legal Protections for Workers
The Emigration Ordinance 1979 and Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE) provide legal protection for all workers going abroad through registered agencies.
Every worker must:
- Obtain a Protectorate of Emigrants stamp before departure.
- Be recruited through a licensed overseas employment promoter (OEP).
- Have a signed employment contract verified by the Pakistani mission abroad.
The FIA’s role is to ensure only legitimate travelers depart and to prevent human trafficking or illegal migration attempts.
Government’s Broader Policy on Overseas Employment
The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis & Human Resource Development (MOPHRD) is expanding safe and legal migration opportunities by:
- Launching digital verification systems for work visas.
- Establishing complaint portals for workers abroad.
- Partnering with countries like Saudi Arabia and South Korea for technical training programs.
- Encouraging skilled labor exports under the National Skills Strategy 2025.
This aligns with Pakistan’s long-term goal of increasing remittance inflows while ensuring welfare protection for overseas citizens.
Positive Reaction from the Public
The clarification has been welcomed by overseas employment agencies and travel consultants, who said the FIA’s timely statement will reduce panic and restore confidence among departing workers.
Social media users also praised the move, urging the government to take strict action against corrupt officials and simplify the immigration process further.
One user wrote:
“This decision is a relief for thousands of workers who were scared their flights would be canceled for no reason.”
Steps to Report Offloading or Harassment
If any traveler faces wrongful treatment, they can immediately contact:
| Department | Contact Method |
|---|---|
| FIA Complaint Cell | www.fia.gov.pk |
| Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis | www.mophrd.gov.pk |
| Bureau of Emigration Helpline | 051-9200472 |
| complaints@fia.gov.pk | |
| WhatsApp Helpline | Available on FIA official website |
Benefits of the Clarification
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Protection from Unlawful Offloading | Genuine travelers won’t face unnecessary delays. |
| Boost to Worker Confidence | Encourages legal overseas employment. |
| Strengthened FIA Accountability | Internal checks and inquiries ensure transparency. |
| Economic Stability | Continuous remittance inflow from overseas workers. |
| Improved Global Image | Promotes Pakistan as a fair and law-abiding labor-exporting nation. |
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FAQs about Pakistanis Traveling Abroad on Work Visas:
1. Is any affidavit required for Pakistanis traveling on work visas?
No, FIA confirmed that no affidavit or extra document is required for work visa holders.
2. Which airports reported offloading incidents?
Lahore and Karachi airports reported isolated cases currently under investigation.
3. What should I do if I’m stopped despite having valid documents?
You should immediately contact the FIA Complaint Cell or Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis.
4. Does this rule apply to visit visa holders too?
No, the clarification applies mainly to work visa holders. Visit visa travelers follow standard verification procedures.
5. What is a Protectorate Certificate?
It’s an official document issued by the Bureau of Emigration confirming that a worker is legally employed abroad.
6. How long will the inquiry take?
Investigations have already begun and are expected to conclude within a few weeks.
7. Who ordered this inquiry?
FIA Director General Riffat Mukhtar, under instructions from Minister Salik Hussain.
8. Will strict action be taken against guilty officers?
Yes, the FIA has promised disciplinary action against any official found involved in unlawful offloading.
Conclusion – Pakistanis Traveling Abroad on Work Visas
The FIA’s clear stance brings a wave of relief for overseas Pakistanis, especially those traveling for work opportunities in the Middle East and beyond. By confirming that no new travel rules or affidavits have been introduced and by investigating offloading cases, the government ensures that legal travelers face no hurdles.
This decision not only safeguards workers’ rights but also strengthens trust in Pakistan’s immigration system — a crucial step toward facilitating safe, dignified, and lawful overseas employment for all citizens.
