Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has introduced strict travel restrictions on first-time flyers, particularly those around 35 years old, from specific regions amid rising concerns over illegal immigration. The new measures primarily affect individuals traveling from Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin, and Jhelum to certain countries, including Saudi Arabia, even for Umrah, according to a report by Dawn.
Stricter Travel Regulations Implemented
The FIA has enforced strict profiling of passengers flying to 15 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Turkiye, Qatar, Azerbaijan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Egypt, Libya, Ethiopia, Senegal, Mauritania, and Kenya. This step aims to curb the misuse of visit visas for unauthorized migration, as per official sources.
A report submitted to the Lahore High Court (LHC) detailed the reasons behind these restrictions, particularly after a pilgrim was denied travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. The FIA emphasized that travelers must demonstrate a clear purpose, confirmed hotel bookings, and sufficient financial means before being allowed to fly. Additionally, Umrah travelers are now required to possess adequate religious knowledge, according to the report published by Dawn.
Response to Growing Immigration Concerns
The decision follows multiple tragic incidents involving Pakistani migrants who traveled under the guise of religious visits. In recent months, boat accidents in Libya, South Greece, and Morocco/Mauritania resulted in significant casualties. Many of the victims were found to have traveled from Pakistan using Umrah visit visas before attempting illegal migration to Europe.
The FIA report revealed that most of these individuals were aged between 15 and 40 years and came from areas such as Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Bhimber, Jhelum, Toba Tek Singh, Hafizabad, and Sheikhupura.
Heightened Airport Security and Immigration Screening
Immigration authorities at Pakistani airports have ramped up document verification and passenger interviews to identify travelers with unclear travel plans.
Recent findings from the Immigration Border Management System (IBMS) database showed alarming trends in the misuse of visit, tourist, and student visas. Between July and December 2024, an increasing number of individuals entered transit countries as part of unauthorized journeys to Europe. The FIA’s Risk Analysis Unit flagged the 15 targeted countries as frequent routes for illegal immigration, reinforcing the need for stricter regulations.
Authorities Call for International Cooperation
The FIA has urged global partners, including Saudi Arabia and other destination countries, to collaborate in preventing illegal migration through strict visa policies and enhanced traveler screening. Officials stress that these measures will not only help curb human trafficking but also protect Pakistanis from falling victim to dangerous migration routes.
As the situation develops, authorities are expected to refine immigration policies to ensure legitimate travelers can move freely while preventing the exploitation of visa loopholes. For more updates on this developing story, visit Issue N Fact.
