Pakistan has recorded a significant decline in overseas employment in 2025, with over 41,000 fewer people leaving the country for work compared to the previous year, official figures show. Data from the Protectorate of Emigrants indicates that 686,272 Pakistanis secured jobs abroad this year, down from 727,381 in 2024.
The decline has been observed nationwide, affecting all provinces, including major urban centers like Karachi, where 52,494 people departed for work abroad. The trend reflects a slowdown in traditional migration patterns and raises questions about economic, regulatory, and global factors influencing overseas employment.
Among destinations, Gulf countries remain the most popular. Saudi Arabia led as the top choice, followed by the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Other destinations included Japan, Central Asian states, Britain, European countries, and various African nations. In contrast, the United States attracted only 897 Pakistani workers, making it one of the least preferred destinations this year.
Workers leaving the country included a wide spectrum of skilled and semi-skilled professionals, as well as labor-class employees. The group encompassed doctors, nurses, engineers, accountants, pharmacists, artists, agricultural experts, and other professionals, highlighting the diverse composition of Pakistan’s overseas workforce.
Officials suggest that the decline may be influenced by changing global demand, stricter visa policies, and domestic economic factors. The data underscores a notable shift in the country’s overseas labor migration patterns and provides insights into emerging trends in workforce mobility.
This record drop in overseas employment marks a critical point for policymakers, labor organizations, and economic planners as they assess strategies to manage labor export, support workers, and respond to evolving international employment opportunities.
