The caretaker government has announced the opening of six new Protectorate of Immigrant offices across the country to facilitate overseas employment opportunities for Pakistani citizens.

Additionally, the requirement for individuals to obtain their protectorate from the same city as their identity card or domicile has been removed, allowing them to access any office nationwide.

New Offices to Expand Reach:

The new offices will be established in Sukkur, Abbottabad, Gwadar, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad, and Gilgit-Baltistan, bringing the total number of offices to 15. This expansion will significantly improve access for individuals seeking employment abroad, especially those residing in remote areas.

Currently, the protectorates are already present in Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Multan, Malakand, DG Khan, and Sialkot.

Simplified Process for Overseas Job Seekers:

Previously, individuals seeking a protectorate were required to apply at the office within their city of residence, as indicated on their identity card or domicile. This requirement often created inconvenience and delays, particularly for those living far from existing offices.

The decision to remove this restriction provides greater flexibility and freedom for overseas jobseekers. They can now visit any conveniently located Protectorate of Immigrant office across Pakistan, regardless of their place of origin.

Meeting the Needs of Pakistani Diaspora:

These initiatives demonstrate the caretaker government's commitment to supporting the well-being of Pakistani citizens working abroad. By streamlining the process for obtaining a protectorate and expanding access to services, the government aims to empower individuals seeking employment opportunities overseas.

"These measures have been taken for the welfare of Pakistanis living abroad," said Special Assistant for Overseas Jawad Sohrab Malik, who chaired a meeting where the decisions were finalised.

Good news for all Prospective Pakistani migrant workers. InShaAllah soon we will launch 6 additional Protectorate Offices in Sukkur, Abbottabad, AJK, Gawadar, Islamabad & GB. You will also be able to approach any Protectorate Office in Pakistan & AJK, irrespective of your… pic.twitter.com/BoOzrlecuV
— Jawad Sohrab (@JawadSohrab) December 6, 2023

Impact:

These actions are expected to significantly benefit Pakistanis seeking employment abroad by:

Increased Accessibility: New offices will make it easier for individuals to access services, regardless of their location.
Reduced Delays: Removing the location requirement will streamline the process and minimise waiting times.
Greater Flexibility: Individuals can now choose the office that best suits their needs and schedule.
Improved Support: The expanded network of offices will offer more comprehensive support to overseas jobseekers.

Overall, these steps by the caretaker government demonstrate a positive commitment to supporting the Pakistani diaspora and facilitating their pursuit of opportunities abroad.