The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis has intervened following widespread criticism of a new Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) requirement demanding guarantees from Grade-18 government officers for Pakistanis traveling abroad for work. The controversial condition drew strong backlash from both citizens and officials, who labeled it unnecessary and legally unfounded.
FIA Rule Faces Legal Pushback
Reports indicate that the FIA had recently begun enforcing a rule requiring Pakistani travelers to submit a guarantee from a Grade-18 officer to ensure their return. However, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development swiftly challenged the move, calling it “illegal and baseless.” Officials clarified that once a traveler has obtained a protector certificate—a legal authorization to travel abroad—the FIA has no authority to impose additional guarantees.
The ministry directed the FIA to immediately remove the requirement, warning that any offloading of passengers must be accompanied by a written explanation. Failure to comply could lead to disciplinary action against responsible officers.
Protecting Citizens’ Rights Abroad
Ministry representatives questioned why the FIA introduced the rule after travelers had already secured their protector certificates. They emphasized that such measures create unnecessary obstacles for overseas workers and urged the agency to facilitate rather than hinder citizens pursuing employment abroad.
The intervention is expected to streamline travel procedures for Pakistanis, ensuring compliance with legal protocols while removing arbitrary barriers. Travelers can now proceed abroad without facing additional, unwarranted bureaucratic hurdles.
