Govt orders crackdown on fake visa networks, plans major immigration reforms

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The federal government on Friday ordered a strong crackdown on mafias involved in the business of fake visas.

A special meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain decided to tighten action against travellers attempting to go abroad using forged documents.

During the meeting, officials approved steps to make the protector issuance system foolproof and to introduce reforms in the immigration system for passenger convenience. The ministers have sought final recommendations within seven days.

At the meeting, authorities were directed to launch an effective crackdown against those involved in fake visa operations and agent networks.

Naqvi said that to curb illegal immigration, an AI-based pilot project will be launched in Islamabad starting January. Through this AI system, authorities will be able to determine in advance which travellers are eligible to fly and which are not.

He added that once a deported person’s passport is cancelled, measures will be taken to ensure they cannot obtain a visa again.

A standardized international driving licence will be issued through the National Police Bureau, and a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced against fake visas and agent mafias. He also said Pakistan is engaging with other countries to improve the global standing of the green passport.

Naqvi noted that people using illegal means to travel abroad damage the country’s reputation, and immigration reforms aim to facilitate citizens and improve Pakistan’s international image.

At the meeting, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain said that a fully transparent protector system is the need of the hour. He stressed that individuals travelling on labour visas must possess authentic documents. He assured that his ministry will fully cooperate with the Interior Ministry to improve the protector and immigration systems.

The session reviewed actions against illegal migrants and individuals with incomplete documents and discussed matters related to e-driving licences, protector stamps, and immigration procedures.

The meeting was attended by the interior secretary and special secretary, secretary for overseas Pakistanis, the NADRA chairman, FIA DGs and directors, DG Passport and Immigration, and representatives from all relevant departments.