In welcome news for Pakistanis traveling abroad for employment, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has confirmed that no new affidavit or documentation requirements have been introduced for individuals departing the country on work visas. The clarification comes after reports circulated claiming that workers were being offloaded from flights and required to present unnecessary documents.
FIA Launches Inquiry Into Offloading Incidents
According to an official statement from the FIA, the issue was discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain. The meeting was attended by FIA Director General Riffat Mukhtar, who confirmed that the agency had launched an inquiry into reports of overseas workers being offloaded at Lahore and Karachi airports.
DG Mukhtar assured that any FIA officials found involved in misconduct or harassment of passengers would face strict disciplinary action. He further emphasized that the FIA has not imposed any new conditions for passengers traveling abroad for employment.
Earlier media reports had alleged that the FIA had made it mandatory for outbound workers to obtain an affidavit signed by a Grade 18 or 19 officer, guaranteeing they would not attempt to enter Europe illegally. The agency has now categorically denied these claims, calling them false and misleading.
Government Reaffirms Support for Overseas Pakistanis
Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of overseas workers, calling them a vital pillar of Pakistan’s economy due to their substantial contribution through foreign remittances.
He directed the FIA chief to immediately address the issue and ensure that no passenger with a valid work visa or protection certificate is unlawfully stopped from traveling abroad.
“Our overseas workers are ambassadors of Pakistan, and they must be treated with respect and dignity,” the minister stated.
The FIA’s assurance has brought relief to thousands of Pakistanis preparing to travel overseas for employment, reaffirming that the process remains smooth, transparent, and free of new bureaucratic hurdles.
