In a major development for overseas employment, Italy has announced it will allocate 10,500 visas to Pakistani skilled workers, marking a significant expansion in legal migration pathways between the two countries.
The announcement was made by Italian Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi following a high-level meeting in Rome with Pakistan’s Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
10,500 Work Visas for Pakistani Skilled Labor
Under the new policy framework, Italy will provide 10,500 work visas specifically for Pakistani skilled labor as part of its broader strategy to promote legal migration and regulate overseas employment.
Officials described the move as a structured effort to open safe and legal channels for workers while discouraging irregular migration routes.
The decision is expected to benefit thousands of Pakistani professionals and technical workers seeking better employment opportunities in Europe.
Legal Migration and Security Cooperation
During their meeting in Rome, both interior ministers discussed strengthening cooperation in key areas, including:
- Countering illegal immigration
- Combating human smuggling networks
- Addressing drug trafficking
- Enhancing counter-terrorism collaboration
Also Read: Portugal opens Residency Visa opportunities for Pakistani citizens
Italian authorities acknowledged Pakistan’s recent measures to tighten airport monitoring and maritime border controls, which have reportedly reduced illegal departures.
Piantedosi praised Pakistan’s progress in curbing illegal migration, trafficking, and narcotics operations, describing the efforts as noteworthy.
Visa-Free Entry for Diplomatic Passport Holders
In addition to the skilled worker visa allocation, Italy has also indicated plans to move forward with visa-free entry for Pakistani diplomatic passport holders.
The proposal, initially raised by Mohsin Naqvi, is now being formally advanced as part of broader bilateral cooperation.
Boost for Overseas Employment Opportunities
The new visa allocation is being viewed as a major boost for Pakistani overseas employment prospects, particularly at a time when demand for skilled labor in Europe continues to grow.
Experts say the agreement could:
- Increase remittances to Pakistan
- Strengthen bilateral ties
- Provide regulated migration alternatives
- Reduce reliance on illegal travel routes
Both countries have expressed commitment to further expanding cooperation in legal migration frameworks and other areas of mutual interest.
