The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment has announced the enforcement of the “Protection of Overseas Pakistanis’ Properties Act 2024”, aimed at safeguarding the properties and legal rights of Pakistanis living abroad.

According to an official statement, special courts will be established across the country to hear cases related to overseas Pakistanis’ properties, including illegal occupation, ownership disputes and fraud cases.

The government said the new law is designed to provide overseas Pakistanis with complete legal protection and restore confidence among expatriates regarding their investments and assets in Pakistan.

Under the new system, separate courts will exclusively deal with property-related cases involving overseas Pakistanis. One such court has already started functioning in Islamabad, while the system will gradually expand to Punjab and other provinces.

The law also introduces modern digital facilities for overseas Pakistanis. They will now be able to file complaints and legal cases electronically through e-filing systems. In addition, video link facilities will allow overseas Pakistanis to attend court proceedings without travelling to Pakistan.

Officials said the special courts will be bound to decide cases within 90 days, while High Courts will also be required to conclude appeals within the same period.

Authorities believe the law will help reduce long-standing issues faced by overseas Pakistanis, including illegal occupation of land, fake ownership claims and document forgery.

The government added that the move is expected to improve investor confidence and encourage more overseas Pakistanis to invest in the country’s economy and property sector.