The Director General (DG) of Passports has revealed that several nations, including the UAE, Italy, the UK, and various European countries, have ceased issuing student visas to citizens of Pakistan.
This information was shared during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis, which was led by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada.
The DG Passport mentioned that some embassies are providing lists of Pakistanis allegedly involved in illegal activities abroad. A significant issue remains as numerous Pakistanis traveling for pilgrimage or on visitor visas do not return, resulting in their listing on the Exit Control List (ECL).
Last year, 34,000 Pakistanis were deported from Iran. Additionally, several individuals were sent back to Pakistani authorities without facing jail time due to breaches of the Passport Act.
Despite these challenges, the Secretary for Overseas Pakistanis presented some positive news. Eight skilled female welders have recently found jobs in South Korea. This milestone is credited to MD Naseer Kashani, whose contributions were praised by the committee chair.
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