ISLAMABAD, May 27: Pakistan has announced that it will cancel the passports of Pakistani citizens deported from countries, including those in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Europe, in a move aimed at curbing overseas violations of local laws by its nationals. The decision, made during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad, will also see deported individuals subjected to further legal action. According to state broadcaster PTV, a first information report (FIR) will be registered against each returnee, and their names will be added to a five-year passport control list, barring them from future international travel.

Officials say the crackdown follows reports from several host nations highlighting the involvement of Pakistani nationals in activities deemed illegal or in breach of immigration laws. Gulf states and European countries have deported thousands in recent months, including more than 5,000 from Saudi Arabia, primarily on charges related to overstaying visas and begging.

A federal committee has been formed to oversee the enforcement of these new measures and coordinate inter-agency efforts.

Millions of Pakistanis live and work abroad, with the largest communities residing in GCC countries, Europe, the United States, Australia, and Southeast Asia. While remittances from overseas workers remain a vital component of Pakistan’s economy, the government has voiced growing concern over illegal migration and fraudulent job schemes.

Just last week, Pakistani missions in the UAE issued fresh warnings about deceptive overseas employment offers targeting job seekers. Officials urged citizens to remain cautious, particularly when responding to online advertisements, and to avoid travelling on tourist visas for job hunting.

Pakistan’s ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, had cautioned nationals against using visit visas to search for employment, and reminded them to comply fully with visa requirements, including proof of accommodation, return flights, and adequate financial means.