Pakistan has decided to cancel the passports of its citizens who have been deported from countries including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and European nations. This step aims to stop Pakistanis from breaking laws abroad.
The decision came during a high-level meeting in Islamabad led by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Along with passport cancellations, deported individuals will face legal action in Pakistan. Authorities will file a First Information Report (FIR) against every returnee. Their names will also be added to a special list that restricts them from traveling internationally for five years.
Officials said the crackdown follows reports from host countries about Pakistanis involved in illegal activities or violating immigration laws. Recently, thousands of Pakistanis have been deported from Gulf states and Europe. More than 5,000 were sent back from Saudi Arabia alone, mainly for overstaying visas and begging.
To enforce these measures, the government has set up a federal committee. This group will coordinate efforts between different agencies to ensure the rules are applied effectively.
