THE launch of National Immigration and Welfare Policy 2026 is a significant step towards reforming Pakistan’s labour migration framework and ensuring greater protection for millions of Pakistanis seeking employment abroad. Unveiled by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the policy reflects a much-needed shift towards safer migration pathways, skills development and the welfare of overseas nationals.
For decades, overseas Pakistanis have played a vital role in strengthening the country’s economy. With more than 12 million Pakistanis living and working across the world, their remittances have remained a crucial source of foreign exchange and a lifeline for countless families. However, while their contributions are immense, many migrant workers have faced serious challenges, including exploitation, inadequate legal protection, lack of relevant skills and fraudulent recruitment practices. The new policy addresses some of these long-standing concerns by focusing on orderly migration, professional training, enhanced worker protection and preparing workforce according to the demands of the global labour market. This approach is particularly important at a time when technological changes and shifting economic trends are creating new opportunities but also increasing competition among countries supplying human capital. Pakistan has enormous potential to become a leading provider of skilled manpower worldwide. However, this can only be achieved by equipping workers with modern skills, ensuring transparent recruitment mechanisms and protecting them before, during and after their overseas employment. A skilled and protected workforce will not only improve the lives of overseas Pakistanis but also enhance the country’s economic standing. In recent times, online fraud and fake recruitment schemes have become increasingly common, with innocent people being deceived by criminals promising jobs in Europe and other attractive destinations. Many aspiring workers, often from modest backgrounds, lose their hard-earned savings to such scams. Strict action must be taken against individuals and networks involved in these fraudulent activities. Effective regulation, public awareness campaigns and stronger coordination between relevant institutions are essential to prevent exploitation.
