UAE has introduced a new condition for Pakistani citizens applying for employment visas. Applicants must now provide a police character certificate as part of the visa application process, aiming to ensure compliance with UAE regulations.
Adnan Paracha, Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Overseas Employment Promoters Association (POEPA), confirmed the change. He explained that the decision was made following concerns raised by UAE authorities about illegal activities involving some Pakistani individuals, including begging.
Paracha described the new rule as a necessary step to strengthen ties with the UAE and improve Pakistan’s reputation abroad. “We have a responsibility to respect the laws of a brotherly nation like the UAE,” he said, urging compliance with this updated requirement.
In recent years, Pakistanis have faced challenges in obtaining UAE work visas. Restrictions have grown stricter, including a ban on visit visas for 30 cities in Pakistan. Last year alone, over 100,000 Pakistani workers were unable to secure employment in the UAE, impacting remittances—a key revenue source for Pakistan.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, another significant destination for Pakistani workers, has also expressed concerns about illegal immigration. In response, Pakistan recently added 4,300 names to its Exit Control List (ECL) to curb the outflow of individuals engaging in unlawful activities abroad.
Adnan Paracha called for proactive diplomatic efforts to address these challenges, emphasizing that remittances from the UAE and Saudi Arabia are vital for Pakistan’s economy. By adhering to these new measures, he hopes to rebuild trust and facilitate smoother visa processes for Pakistani workers in the future.
