Workers off-loaded at Airports despite valid visas: FIA probe
The FIA has launched an investigation into reports of Pakistani workers being off-loaded at airports despite holding valid work visas and protection certificates. Some travellers with full documentation were denied boarding at Lahore and Karachi airports.
During a meeting chaired by Overseas Pakistanis Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, FIA Director-General Riffat Mukhtar confirmed the incidents and said the agency will take strict action if any FIA officials are involved.
Minister orders stop to unlawful off-loading
Minister Hussain emphasised that Pakistanis going abroad on employment are “highly respected” and instructed the FIA to ensure no work visa holders face off-loading at Pakistani airports. He flagged the role of overseas remittances in driving Pakistan’s economy and ordered immediate resolution of the issue.
No new conditions; online immigration system coming
The FIA clarified no additional conditions, affidavits, or government officer signatures have been imposed for workers travelling abroad on work visas. A new digital system will allow workers to complete immigration online before departure, reducing the possibility of being off-loaded at the airport.
