In a major breakthrough for overseas employment, Pakistan has secured a dedicated job quota from Italy, creating fresh, legal pathways for Pakistani workers seeking opportunities in Europe.

The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis announced that Italy has allotted Pakistan a total quota of 10,500 jobs over the next three years, marking a significant milestone in labor mobility between the two countries.

Under the agreement, 3,500 Pakistani workers will travel to Italy every year, providing long-term continuity and stability for overseas employment planning.

According to the ministry, the annual quota includes 1,500 seasonal jobs and 2,000 non-seasonal jobs for Pakistani nationals each year.

This structured division ensures employment opportunities across different industries and work cycles, benefiting both skilled and semi-skilled workers.

Sectors open for employment

Italy has allocated job quotas for Pakistan in multiple sectors, including shipbreaking, hospitality, healthcare, and agriculture, according to the ministry spokesperson.

Pakistani workers will be employed as welders, technicians, chefs, waiters, housekeeping staff, nurses, medical technicians, and agricultural workers, reflecting strong demand for Pakistan’s workforce.

First European country to allocate job quota

Officials confirmed that Italy has become the first European country to formally allocate a dedicated employment quota for Pakistan.

This development is being viewed as a breakthrough that could pave the way for similar arrangements with other European nations.

To further strengthen cooperation, the second meeting of the Pakistan-Italy Joint Working Group is scheduled to be held in Islamabad in February 2026.

The meeting is expected to review progress, expand collaboration, and explore additional employment avenues.

Govt reaction

Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain termed Italy’s job quota allocation an important milestone for Pakistan’s overseas workforce.

He said the government is consistently working to ensure decent and legal employment opportunities for Pakistani workers at the global level.

The minister emphasized that Overseas Pakistanis are ambassadors of the country and play the role of the backbone of Pakistan’s economy through remittances and global representation.

Chaudhry Salik expressed optimism that more European countries will soon open their doors to Pakistani workers, following Italy’s lead.