In a significant move to combat the growing issue of illegal migration, Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has introduced a new mandatory requirement for all travelers departing on overseas employment visas. These individuals must now submit a sworn affidavit, verified by a senior government officer, pledging they will not attempt illegal entry into Europe.
The policy comes in response to numerous cases where individuals with legitimate work visas for countries in the Middle East or Asia used them as a stepping stone, only to divert their travel to European nations illegally. Nearly 150 passengers have already been offloaded at airports like Lahore for failing to comply with this new regulation.
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The affidavit requires verification by a government officer in Grade 18 or 19, adding a layer of official oversight. Authorities defend the measure as a necessary step to protect citizens from the dangers of human trafficking and exploitation, and to prevent the legal and diplomatic complications that arise from illegal migration.
However, the new rule has been met with criticism from travelers and migrant rights advocates. Many argue that it places an additional bureaucratic hurdle and undue suspicion on legitimate workers who have secured legal employment and visas, punishing them for the actions of a few.
FAQs: Pakistan’s Mandatory Affidavit for Overseas Workers
1. What is the new requirement?
All Pakistani travelers on an Overseas Employment Visas must now submit an affidavit, verified by a Grade 18 or 19 officer, stating they will not attempt to enter Europe illegally.
2. Why has this policy been introduced?
It aims to curb a pattern of illegal migration where travelers with valid work visas for other countries divert their journey to Europe, often through intermediary nations.
3. What happens if I don’t have this affidavit?
You will not be allowed to board your flight. Nearly 150 passengers have already been offloaded at Pakistani airports for non-compliance.
4. Who is criticizing the policy and why?
Travelers and advocates criticize it as an unnecessary bureaucratic barrier that treats all migrant workers with suspicion, even those with genuine visas and job contracts, making the process more difficult and costly.
5. Is this affidavit required for all types of visas?
No, the requirement is specifically for travelers holding an overseas employment visa. It does not apply to other categories like student, family, or tourist visas.
