The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development has formally ordered the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to remove the so‑called “Grade‑18 guarantee rule” for Pakistani travellers. The ministry declared the rule lacking any legal standing and demanded its immediate withdrawal.
Under the contested measure, the FIA had required outgoing travellers, especially those heading abroad for employment, to present a guarantee from a Grade‑18 or higher government officer confirming their return and the legality of their work placement. This unexpected requirement triggered widespread frustration among thousands of workers at airports across Pakistan.
The ministry raised concerns that the FIA lacked authority to impose the rule, since travellers already carried Protector Stamps and other official travel clearances under the Protectorate of Emigrants system. Officials warned that any off‑loading without a written explanation would result in disciplinary action against responsible officers.
Adding a related context, nationals travelling for work or pilgrimage have been monitoring evolving visa and travel rules. For example, recent reports show that certain visa holders can now perform Umrah regardless of job status, a shift highlighted in a report on Saudi Arabia’s changing travel policy.
Labour rights advocates and travel agencies welcomed the ministry’s directive but cautioned that genuine policy clarifications are still needed. Many overseas job seekers say they suffered financial losses after being denied boarding due to the guarantee rule. The sudden rollout of the rule was seen as both abrupt and confusing.
With the ministry’s intervention, the Grade‑18 guarantee requirement is expected to lapse immediately. However, workers are advised to keep all standard travel documents ready, such as work visas, protector stamps, and employment letters, while awaiting formal notification of the change.
