The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has introduced a new requirement for Pakistanis leaving the country on work visas. According to recent reports, individuals travelling abroad for employment must now present an affidavit signed by a Grade 18 or 19 government officer before departure.
The affidavit serves as a written guarantee confirming that the passenger will only work at their designated place of employment and will not attempt to enter Europe illegally. This step comes after several incidents involving passengers who travelled to Gulf countries. But later tried to move to Europe through irregular routes.
In the past week alone, FIA immigration teams have reportedly offloaded around 150 passengers from different flights at Lahore and other airports for failing to meet this new verification condition. The measure aims to curb illegal immigration attempts and protect Pakistan’s reputation internationally.
An FIA official at Lahore Airport shared that only those presenting an affidavit verified by a senior government officer will be allowed to proceed. The move is part of a broader crackdown to ensure all overseas workers travel through proper legal channels.
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The Protectorate of Emigrants has also stationed inspectors at major airports to assist genuine workers and verify their documentation. Passengers travelling through the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC) are being cleared more smoothly. While those connected to private overseas recruitment agencies are facing longer verification processes.
However, many passengers have expressed frustration, calling the new rule unfair and unnecessary. Despite having valid work visas and job offers. Several travellers claim that the added verification makes the process more complicated and time-consuming.
Authorities maintain that the policy is designed to ensure safe, legal migration. And to discourage human trafficking networks from exploiting job seekers.
