Pakistan has implemented stricter travel protocols at its airports to ensure compliance with international regulations, following a surge in deportations and travel violations. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport recently offloaded multiple passengers due to incomplete documentation, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing immigration issues.
Deportation Surge Raises Concerns
Recently, 52 Pakistanis were deported from different countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the United States, Sweden, and Oman. The deportations were due to various reasons, such as visa overstays, expired travel documents, and involvement in illegal activities like drug trafficking. Saudi Arabia alone accounted for 42 of these cases, reflecting stringent enforcement of immigration laws in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Some of the deportees had administrative violations, while others were accused of more serious offences such as begging and presenting false documents. For instance, Sweden and the United States deported people for illegal stays and unauthorised entries, pointing to the need for increased travel compliance.
Airport Offloading Illustrates Gaps in Documentation
Karachi Airport has become a hub for travel enforcement as 13 passengers were offloaded recently for failing to meet the requirements of travel. Among those offloaded were Umrah pilgrims who could not produce hotel reservations or sufficient funds, and a worker going to Qatar without visa documents. Similar incidents included passengers trying to travel to Oman, Italy, Azerbaijan, and Tanzania without proper paperwork.
These measures aim to prevent passengers from encountering difficulties abroad, safeguarding Pakistan’s reputation and reducing the burden on host countries’ immigration systems.
Strengthening Regulations for Better Compliance
Among these measures for controlling unauthorised travel, the FIA has further enforced its controls. Authorities have focused on maintaining proper documentation, such as a valid visa, confirmation of accommodations, and proof of travel funds. Violations can lead to deportation or legal issues and should be avoided.
Deterring Violations
These developments act as a stark reminder for Pakistani travellers to follow the rules and regulations of travelling. Proper planning, documentation, and following visa conditions are a must to avoid any delay or denial at the airport.
Read More: Rejection Ratio of UAE Visas for Pakistanis Soars to 99pc
In the process of Pakistan’s strengthening efforts to impose immigration rules, travellers are also advised to seek information about requirements at their destination. This would help them play a role in a hassle-free travel experience and in maintaining the country’s image abroad.
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