Adnan Paracha, Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Overseas Employment Promoters Association, stated that over the past two weeks, young people seeking jobs abroad have been facing increasing difficulties.
He explained that Overseas Employment Promoters send young individuals on work visas through contracts, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s economy, with overseas workers remitting $33 to $34 billion annually.
Paracha highlighted that despite having valid legal documents, including Protector stamps and work visas, many travelers are being offloaded by airport authorities without valid reasons.
He further noted that most of the tickets for these travelers are non-refundable, causing them significant financial losses. Additionally, complaints from international employers about delays have also been increasing.
Adnan Paracha urged the Prime Minister and the Federal Minister of Interior to take immediate action, directing the resolution of these issues faced by individuals traveling abroad with the required legal documents and visas. He emphasized that this workforce is a valuable national asset and deserves prompt support.
According to reports, seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United States, the UAE, and Sweden, have deported 52 Pakistani nationals.
Among those returning to Karachi Airport, three individuals were detained while the remaining were sent home. Immigration sources revealed that the deportations were due to various violations and charges.
From Saudi Arabia, two Pakistanis were blacklisted, one was deported for begging, nine due to sponsor complaints, 11 for overstaying, seven for losing their passports, and 11 others on different allegations.
Additionally, Sweden deported one Pakistani, and the United States deported two for illegal entry. Oman sent back one individual for overstaying a visa, while the UAE deported three for unlawful residency.
Three Pakistani children were also deported and returned using emergency travel documents.
Separately, the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) immigration staff stopped 13 individuals at Karachi Airport attempting to travel to countries including Italy, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Tanzania.
Five Umrah pilgrims were prevented from boarding due to insufficient hotel bookings and funds. Another passenger heading to Qatar was offloaded for lacking work visa documents and an NOC.