In a move that brings relief to thousands of overseas job seekers, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has clarified that no new affidavit or additional conditions have been imposed on Pakistanis traveling abroad on work visas.
The announcement came during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Chaudhry Salik Hussain. Addressing recent rumors, the FIA confirmed that reports about a mandatory affidavit allegedly to be signed by a Grade 18 or 19 officer were completely baseless and had no official backing.
FIA Director General Riffat Mukhtar acknowledged that a few passengers holding work visas had recently been offloaded at Lahore and Karachi airports. He assured that an inquiry is already underway to identify those responsible, and strict disciplinary action will be taken against any officials found guilty of wrongful offloading.
Minister Hussain emphasized that overseas Pakistanis are the backbone of the national economy, contributing billions in remittances each year. He instructed the FIA to ensure that no traveler possessing a valid work visa or protector certificate faces unnecessary hurdles at any airport in Pakistan.
The clarification has been warmly welcomed by overseas workers and travel agents, who had expressed concern following the spread of false reports. The FIA reiterated its commitment to fairness, transparency, and public service promising that all genuine travelers will continue to receive smooth facilitation at airports across the country.
