The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) reported that over 51,000 Pakistanis were offloaded from different countries abroad this year. Many were deported for begging or traveling with fake documents.
The disclosure came during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, chaired by Agha Rafiullah. The FIA Director General provided details about the deportations.
Saudi Arabia deported 24,000 individuals for begging, while the United Arab Emirates removed 6,000 Pakistanis on similar charges. Azerbaijan also offloaded 2,500 individuals for begging. These numbers highlight a growing issue for Pakistanis traveling abroad.
Authorities also identified cases where people tried to travel to Europe under the pretense of performing Umrah. Travelers were found carrying documents claiming pilgrimage, but evidence showed they intended to enter Europe illegally.
This year, approximately 8.5 million people traveled abroad from Pakistan. Among them, 226 cases were registered for illegal activities, including fraud and begging. Additionally, 450 people were caught attempting to cross the Iranian border illegally within a three-month period.
The FIA also highlighted misuse of Pakistani tourist visas. Bangladeshi nationals were found traveling to Europe using these visas. Last year, 287 individuals were deported for using forged documents, while 170 were deported this year.
Officials emphasized that authorities are closely monitoring travel to prevent misuse of visas and stop illegal activities. Travelers must have legitimate purposes and proper documentation to avoid being offloaded.
The rising number of deportations reflects coordinated efforts by Pakistan and foreign countries to regulate migration abroad. Authorities aim to ensure safe and lawful travel while curbing illegal activities and exploitation of travel systems.
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The FIA has called for stricter checks at airports and border crossings to prevent misuse of travel privileges. Continued awareness campaigns are planned to educate travelers about proper documentation and legal travel procedures.
