Lahore — Close to 2.9 million Pakistanis have left the country over the past three years, seeking better prospects abroad as inflation, insecurity, and unemployment continue to grip the nation.
According to figures released by the Protectorate of Emigrants, 2,894,645 citizens moved overseas between 2022 and September 15, 2025. The data also highlights that a notable number of women are among those who decided to migrate.
For many, the decision was driven by mounting economic pressures and the inability to launch or sustain businesses in Pakistan. Professionals such as doctors, engineers, IT specialists, teachers, bankers, accountants, auditors, designers, and architects make up a significant portion of those who left. Alongside them, thousands of skilled and semi-skilled workers including drivers, welders, and plumbers also sought livelihoods abroad.
The departures have not only reshaped Pakistan’s workforce but also brought in significant revenue for the government. Collectively, emigrants paid nearly Rs. 26.62 billion in mandatory fees to the Protectorate of Emigrants before departing.
Many of those who left say stagnant wages, coupled with skyrocketing inflation, made it impossible to sustain their families. “No matter how hard you work, your salary doesn’t keep up with prices. You’re forced to look elsewhere,” said one emigrant before flying out of Lahore.
Observers warn that while overseas employment may ease pressure on families through remittances, the country is facing a concerning brain drain as educated and skilled individuals continue to leave in record numbers.
