Digital Push Aims to Reform Emigration System

Pakistan has acknowledged gaps in its emigration framework, admitting that outdated laws allow cash dealings between Overseas Employment Promoters (OEPs) and job seekers.

As per the details, officials said these practices fuel overcharging, undocumented payments, and exploitation of thousands of workers.

The Ministry confirmed to Parliament that the 1979 Emigration Ordinance and Rules do not mandate payments through banking channels.

This loophole allows OEPs to operate largely in cash, leaving workers with limited protection against fraud or hidden fees.

Although some OEPs now use bank transfers or platforms like JazzCash and EasyPaisa, Pakistan still lacks a mandatory digital system for foreign employment.

The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BE&OE) has therefore initiated a policy review to make online payments compulsory for all job seekers.

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The Ministry did not dispute complaints that OEPs often exceed official fees, legally capped at Rs15,000 for placement and Rs6,000 for processing.

Two digital declarations—from both the OEP and applicant—have been introduced to improve accountability, but cash-based abuse persists.

BE&OE enforcement data shows 826 licences cancelled, 99 suspended, Rs152.48 million forfeited, and 850 cases sent to the Federal Investigation Agency.

Officials said the crackdown targets illegal sub-agents, a major source of exploitation.

The introduction of E-Protector, online Foreign Service Agreement verification, and digital workflows aims to limit intermediaries and enhance traceability.

However, the continued dominance of cash transactions highlights slow enforcement and the urgent need to modernize Pakistan’s emigration laws.