The federal government decided on Friday to intensify repression against passengers who try to travel abroad with false documents.
Recently, several incidents have been reported of travelers being discharged of flights at various airports, despite possessing valid travel documents. The actions occurred after a Campaign on migrant smuggling after last year Boat tragedy in Greece which claimed several Pakistani lives.
The Home Secretary subsequently stated that anyone attempting to travel with incomplete or false documents would be detained in all circumstances.
In a special meeting held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, it was decided to make the shield issuance system foolproof with reforms to be introduced in the immigration system to facilitate passengers.
Federal ministers sought final recommendations within seven days.
An effective repression was ordered against those involved in the fake visa business and agent mafias. Naqvi said an AI-based pilot app to curb illegal immigration would be launched in Islamabad starting in January, allowing authorities to determine in advance who was eligible to travel and who was not.
The Home Secretary said deported people would not be reissued visas after their passports were cancelled, adding that there would be zero tolerance for fake visas and agent rackets.
“We are in contact with other countries to improve the green passport classification. People going abroad through illegal means damage the country’s reputation. Immigration reforms aim to facilitate entry for the public and improve our global position,” he added.
Naqvi also said that the National Police Office will issue a standardized international driving permit.
Meanwhile, Hussain asserted that a fully transparent protection system was the need of the hour as it was essential for people traveling on work visas to possess authentic documents.
He said the Ministry of Overseas Pakistan would extend its full cooperation with the Ministry of Home Affairs to improve protection and immigration systems.
Meeting participants also reviewed action measures against illegal immigrants and people with incomplete documentation. Electronic driving licenses, protective seals and immigration issues were discussed in detail.
