Pakistan has recorded a significant decline in overseas employment, with more than 41,000 fewer people leaving the country for work this year compared to last year, according to official figures.

Data released by the Protectorate of Emigrants shows that 686,272 Pakistanis went abroad for work during 2025.
This marks a noticeable drop from 727,381 workers who secured overseas jobs last year.

Officials said the decrease in overseas employment has been observed nationwide, with fewer workers departing from all provinces.
In the first eleven months of this year alone, 686,292 people left Pakistan for employment abroad.

According to the released data, 52,494 people from Sindh, including Karachi, went abroad for work during the year. The figures indicate a slowdown even in major urban centers traditionally known for overseas job migration.

US sees minimal intake

The data further shows that the United States attracted only 897 Pakistani workers, making it one of the least preferred destinations for overseas employment during the year.

Gulf countries top destinations

Despite the overall decline, Saudi Arabia remained the top destination for Pakistani workers. The United Arab Emirates ranked second, followed by Qatar in third place, Bahrain fourth, and Kuwait fifth.

Other countries chosen by Pakistani workers included Japan, Central Asian states, Britain, European nations, and several African countries, reflecting a diverse range of overseas employment markets.

Skilled professionals, labourers leave

Those going abroad included highly educated professionals, highly skilled, semi-skilled, and labour-class workers. Among them were doctors, nurses, accountants, artists, agricultural experts, pharmacists, engineers, and other professionals.

The latest figures highlight a changing trend in overseas employment from Pakistan, raising questions about global demand, visa policies, and domestic economic factors influencing migration decisions.