The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis has stepped in to stop a newly introduced travel requirement by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), calling it unnecessary and without legal grounds. The FIA had begun asking Pakistani travelers going abroad to provide a guarantee from a Grade-18 government officer confirming that they would return to the country. The move quickly sparked criticism from citizens and officials.
According to the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, the requirement held “no legal status” and should not have been imposed. The ministry contacted the FIA and demanded that the condition be removed immediately, stating that the agency does not have the authority to impose such rules once a traveler has already obtained their protector certificate.
Officials further emphasized that if any traveler is stopped from leaving the country, the FIA officer involved must now provide a written explanation. If a valid reason is not recorded, disciplinary action will be taken against the officer.
The ministry also questioned why the FIA chose to introduce the rule, noting that such restrictions create unnecessary obstacles for Pakistanis traveling abroad for employment. The ministry stressed that overseas workers contribute significantly to the economy and should be facilitated rather than discouraged.
The clarification is expected to provide relief for thousands of travelers preparing to leave the country for work or other purposes.
