New Rule Announced for Pakistanis Leaving the Country on Work Visa. In a move aimed at enhancing oversight of overseas labour migration, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan has made it mandatory for Pakistani nationals travelling abroad on work visas to submit an affidavit signed by a Grade 18 or Grade 19 government officer. This measure seeks to ensure that workers go only to the specified employment destination and do not attempt onward illegal migration into Europe or other regions.
What the New Rule Requires
- the migrant will work only at the stated overseas employer, and
- the migrant will not attempt entry into Europe illegally.
Immigration teams at airports including Lahore Airport have already off-loaded nearly 150 passengers within a week for failing to provide this new required verification.
Why the Rule Was Introduced
The FIA highlighted that many Pakistani workers departing for destinations such as the UAE (Dubai), Saudi Arabia, Bahrain or Thailand later attempted to enter Europe via routes such as Libya or Baku. To counter this, the new affidavit rule adds an extra layer of accountability.
How It Works at the Airport
- Passengers travelling via the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) channel are being cleared more smoothly.
- Those using private overseas recruitment agencies are subject to additional verification by inspectors deployed at airports.
- Only travellers presenting the verified affidavit (signed by a senior government officer) are permitted to board.
Impact and Implications
For migrant workers:
- See higher scrutiny and more documentation required before departure.
- May face delays if the affidavit or verification is missing or incomplete.
For recruitment agencies and employers:
- Need to coordinate to ensure the affidavit is correctly signed and submitted.
- May face liability or clearance issues if workers depart without the proper affidavit.
For Pakistan’s overseas-employment reputation:
- The rule shows efforts to curb illegal onward migration and labour misuse.
- Helps strengthen Pakistan’s credibility with destination countries.
Key Takeaways
- Affidavit signed by Grade 18/19 officer is mandatory for all Pakistanis travelling abroad on work visas.
- Purpose: to limit misuse of work-visas and illegal migration into Europe.
- Immigration teams are actively enforcing this at airports; already many departures have been prevented.
- Travel via the OEC route appears smoother; private agency cases may face extra checks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who must submit the affidavit?
All Pakistani nationals leaving on work visas must submit the affidavit as per the new FIA rule.
Q2. What if I don’t have the affidavit?
You may be prevented from boarding the flight; immigration teams have already off-loaded passengers who failed to provide it.
Q3. Does this apply only to specific countries?
While the rule applies broadly for overseas employment, the impetus stems from destinations where onward illegal migration into Europe was observed.
Conclusion
The new affidavit requirement introduced by the FIA represents an important step in regulating Pakistan’s overseas employment sector. By insisting on a signed guarantee before departure, the government aims to protect workers, ensure compliance, and guard against illegal migration. Migrant workers and agencies alike must take note of the new process to avoid disruption and ensure smooth travel for legitimate employment abroad.
