New immigration policy for overseas travellers; what’s Pakistan changing?
The federal government has introduced the National Immigration Policy 2026 to improve the way Pakistanis move abroad for work and other opportunities. The policy also aims to make migration safer, more organised and more respectful while strengthening workers’ skills.
Speaking in Islamabad, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain said the new policy reflects the government’s renewed commitment to every Pakistani planning to work or live abroad. He said the policy is designed to support overseas travellers and help them succeed in international job markets.
The minister said the global labour market is changing rapidly, with countries competing to attract skilled workers. He added that Pakistan must prepare its workforce to meet future international standards and changing industry needs.
According to the minister, the new immigration policy will help train Pakistani workers according to global requirements. He said this will improve their chances of finding better jobs and building successful careers overseas.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain said around 12 million Pakistanis are currently living in different countries around the world. He described them as ambassadors of Pakistan who also make a major contribution to the country’s economy.
He added that overseas Pakistanis sent a record of more than $41 billion in remittances during the last financial year. These inflows have become one of the strongest sources of support for Pakistan’s economy.
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The minister said the government is committed to protecting the rights of overseas Pakistanis through effective implementation of the new policy. He also promised to expand skill development programmes and help Pakistanis benefit from more employment opportunities around the world.
The new policy is expected to improve the overall migration system by focusing on worker protection, professional training and better coordination with global labour markets. Officials believe these steps will create more opportunities for Pakistanis while strengthening the country’s economic future.
The new immigration policy shows that Pakistan wants to prepare its workers for a more competitive global job market. If implemented effectively, it could improve job opportunities abroad, protect overseas Pakistanis and increase valuable remittances for the country.
