The National Assembly session has brought to light serious concerns regarding the issuance of visas to Pakistani citizens by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Lawmakers discussed the issue, revealing that some individuals had submitted fake degrees, diplomas, and fraudulent job contracts to obtain UAE visas. These revelations have raised concerns over document fraud and its impact on Pakistani workers seeking employment abroad.
Reasons for Increased Scrutiny
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed multiple factors contributing to the tightening of visa policies for Pakistanis. Several Pakistani workers have overstayed their visas, violating immigration laws. Additionally, some individuals have been involved in political and criminal activities, further prompting UAE authorities to impose stricter regulations. Another major concern raised was the misuse of social media by certain members of the Pakistani community in the UAE, which has added to the increased scrutiny of visa applications.
Read More: Pakistan Rescues Four Nationals from Human Traffickers in Iran …
No Formal Ban, But Stricter Requirements
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar clarified that the UAE has not placed a formal ban on Pakistani applicants. However, the Gulf state has introduced a five-year visa policy with stricter conditions. Under the new requirements, applicants must provide round-trip tickets, hotel bookings, proof of property ownership (if applicable), and an advance payment of 3,000 dirhams. These conditions aim to ensure that applicants have genuine intentions and sufficient financial backing before entering the UAE.
Diplomatic Efforts to Address Concerns
In response to the concerns raised, the Pakistani Embassy in Abu Dhabi has engaged with UAE authorities at ministerial and under-secretary levels. Meanwhile, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad have been in contact with the UAE Embassy in Pakistan to discuss visa-related issues. The Pakistani government has assured that it is actively working to address concerns and facilitate smoother visa processing for its citizens.
Read More: US woman refuses to leave Pakistan after failed romance
While UAE authorities have reassured Pakistan that no official visa ban is in place, growing concerns over fraudulent documents, visa overstays, and security risks have led to tighter scrutiny of Pakistani applications.