ISLAMABAD – Pakistani passengers travelling abroad will undergo strict scrutiny at all international airports across the country as authorities have taken various measures to curb illegal travel and human smuggling.
The development comes amid reports of arbitrary offloading of passengers at airports with some complaining that they were barred from taking flights despite holding valid visa of the foreign countries.
Reports said the government has increased the powers of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) immigration officials in response to issues faced by Pakistani citizens at airports while departing for international travel.
The Ministry of Interior has announced that travelers will now be required to fully satisfy immigration authorities about the purpose of their trip and provide complete documentation, even if they have a valid visa.
Authorities have made it clear that if passengers fail to provide a valid reason for their travel or adequate supporting documents, they will be offloaded from their flights.
The Ministry also revealed that some individuals are using visas for countries like Senegal to illegally migrate to Europe, and stricter screening procedures are being introduced to prevent such activities.
What Documents Will Be Checked at Airport?
As part of the new measures, travelers will be subject to rigorous checks of their return tickets, hotel bookings, bank accounts, and other travel documents. These steps are being taken to protect legitimate travelers and to improve Pakistan’s international image.
