In a major relief for Pakistanis seeking employment in Gulf countries, the Bureau of Immigration and Overseas Employment (BIEO) has extended the deadline for the mandatory soft skills certificate required for protector registration.
According to the bureau, the condition—initially set to take effect from February 1, 2026—will now be implemented from March 1, 2026, granting overseas job aspirants an additional month to fulfill the requirement. The decision applies to Pakistanis traveling to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and other Gulf countries.
More Time for Workers, Easier Overseas Employment Process
Officials said the extension will benefit thousands of laborers, skilled workers, and overseas employment applicants across Pakistan by allowing more time for preparation, documentation, and compliance with new regulations. The move is expected to ease travel-related formalities and reduce last-minute complications for workers heading abroad.
The bureau emphasized that the initiative aims to improve the quality and employability of Pakistani manpower in Gulf labor markets, aligning skills with international standards and enhancing job prospects through certified soft skills.
Also Read: New protector certificate for overseas jobs? Bureau clarifies rumors
Clarification on E-Protector Certificate Rumors
The Bureau of Immigration and Overseas Employment also reiterated its earlier clarification regarding misinformation about the online e-Protector certificate. Authorities dismissed rumors suggesting that all Pakistanis traveling abroad would be required to obtain an online protector certificate from February 1, 2026.
In an official social media statement, the bureau urged citizens to ignore unverified claims and rely only on official government notifications and websites for accurate information related to overseas employment requirements.
Advisory for Applicants
Applicants have been advised to regularly check official platforms for updated guidelines and ensure timely completion of documentation to avoid delays in overseas job placements.
