The federal government has announced a plan to send 800,000 Pakistani citizens abroad for employment in 2026, marking an increase from last year, when around 740,000 Pakistanis secured overseas jobs. The initiative is part of broader efforts to curb unemployment at home and boost foreign remittances.
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain said global demand for skilled Pakistani workers is rising. He noted that Gulf Cooperation Council countries remain the primary destination, but employment opportunities are also expanding in other international markets.
To better prepare workers for overseas employment, the government has launched new technical and soft-skills training programmes. These initiatives are being developed in collaboration with countries such as South Korea and Japan, focusing on improving communication skills, work ethics, professional conduct, and technical expertise to meet international standards.
In a significant move to encourage female participation, the government has reduced the minimum age requirement for women seeking overseas employment from 35 to 25 years. Officials believe this change will open more opportunities for young women and support greater inclusion in the international workforce.
Authorities are also working on reforms to make overseas employment safer and more structured. These measures aim to protect workers’ rights, prevent exploitation, and ensure Pakistani citizens working abroad are treated with dignity and respect.
This information is shared for general awareness and is based on available reports. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, citizens are advised to consult official government sources.
