The decision follows months of complaints from travelers who were stopped just before boarding flights. Many of these cases caused financial loss, emotional stress and uncertainty for families waiting for work opportunities abroad.

Officials said the move gained urgency after a strict crackdown on migrant smuggling launched following the ‘2024 Greece boat tragedy’, which claimed the lives of several Pakistanis trying to reach Europe illegally.

Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain said the government is taking immediate action to ensure genuine jobseekers are not harassed at airports. He stressed that only those with legal and verified travel plans should be allowed to fly without unnecessary hurdles.

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The minister was speaking at an event held to mark International Migrants Day. He said safe, regular and legal overseas employment remains a top government priority, as migrants play a key role in global economies and social development.

He shared that nearly 12 million Pakistanis are currently working abroad and sending back valuable remittances that support millions of families and strengthen the national economy.

The government believes the new airport procedures will balance security needs with the rights of lawful travelers, ensuring dignity and clarity for Pakistanis seeking work overseas.