Clarification on UAE Work Visas for Pakistanis amid Screening Concerns
The Senate Standing Committee confirmed that there are no restrictions on UAE work visas for Pakistanis, although concerns over begging among visitors have led to heightened scrutiny at airports. A significant decrease in visa issuance has been reported, with a push for police verification for work visas to ensure quality labor. The discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations and employment opportunities for Pakistanis in the UAE.
The Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development met recently to discuss the status of work visas for Pakistani citizens wishing to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Committee Chairman Senator Zeeshan Khanzada announced that there are currently “no restrictions on UAE work visas” for Pakistanis. However, a notable concern has arisen due to reports of Pakistanis engaging in begging while on visit visas in the UAE, prompting stricter passenger screenings by authorities.
In recent months, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has removed multiple passengers from flights bound for the UAE to address this issue. When questioned about the declining numbers of Pakistani workers traveling to the UAE, Overseas Employment Promoter Aisam Baig indicated that the visa process had been “unofficially closed” for this demographic, citing a 50 percent drop in travel. Baig clarified that the concerns regarding begging predominantly pertain to visit visas as opposed to work visas.
The committee further explored the necessity for police verification for potential overseas workers, which is deemed essential for obtaining work visas. Officials emphasized the critical role of this verification and the significance of maintaining a quality workforce abroad. Secretary Arshad Mahmood noted that the immigration landscape is predominantly managed by private overseas employment promoters, with the UAE being just one of many destinations available to Pakistani workers.
According to Bureau of Immigration Director General Muhammad Tayyab, while there has been a noticeable decrease in overall numbers, the trend is increasingly favoring skilled labor, with a majority transitioning into the UAE’s construction and service sectors. He underscored the importance of direct visa pathways, particularly for highly skilled professionals, as they contribute significantly to foreign remittances.
Senator Shahadat Awan raised concerns regarding the implementation of police verification on all UAE visas, to which Mahmood reiterated that each country has its own vetting processes for work visas. The committee concluded by urging the Foreign Ministry to investigate the visa restrictions affecting Pakistani workers.
In recent years, there has been growing concern regarding the treatment and status of Pakistani citizens in Middle Eastern countries, particularly in the UAE. Reports of Pakistanis engaging in begging while on visit visas have raised alarms, prompting officials to institute stricter immigration controls. The UAE has expressed concerns over this trend, leading to actions such as vigilant screening of travelers and requirements for police verification for work visas. The situation emphasizes the necessity of maintaining the integrity of the immigration process and ensuring that Pakistanis seeking employment abroad are qualified and vetted appropriately.
The discussions held by the Senate Standing Committee have revealed both the challenges and opportunities facing Pakistani workers seeking employment in the UAE. While there are currently no restrictions on work visas, the need for thorough vetting processes has become apparent in light of growing concerns from UAE authorities. Moving forward, it is crucial for the Foreign Ministry to address these issues to facilitate smoother travel and employment options for Pakistani citizens.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
