Reaffirming the Government of Pakistan's steadfast commitment to its global diaspora, the Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD), Chaudhry Salik Hussain, officially launched the landmark National Emigration and Welfare Policy 2026 in Islamabad today. The ceremony brought together foreign diplomats, representatives of international organizations, federal and provincial government officials, development partners, and media professionals. Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain framed the policy not merely as an administrative framework, but as a solemn national commitment to the more than 11 million Overseas Pakistanis living and working around the globe—primarily across the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasized that rapid technological innovation, demographic shifts, and evolving global labor market demands are fundamentally altering the international world of work. As sovereign nations increasingly pivot towards high-skilled workforces, Pakistan is proactively addressing sector-wide challenges—including fragmented governance, skill shortages, informal remittance routes, and gaps in returnee reintegration. Driven by the overarching vision "To be a country of choice for sourcing quality human resource" and a mission to align human resource development with global standards, the policy guarantees that Pakistani workers possess the competitive edge, institutional backing, and legal protections needed to thrive internationally.
Drawing upon deep-rooted national values and the sacred historical concept of Hijrah, the Federal Minister reflected that leaving home in search of dignity and opportunity is an act of profound courage. Recognizing that every migrant worker carries the honor and aspirations of the nation, he highlighted their indispensable contribution to national stability. Overseas Pakistanis remitted a record-breaking US$ 41.58 billion during FY 2025–26, representing the largest single source of foreign exchange in the country's history.
To structuralize future migration, the policy establishes operational reforms across five core strategic pillars, beginning with safe emigration and skills development. The government is creating a Labour Market Research Cell, revamping Overseas Employment Promoters regulations, expanding Community Welfare Attaché (CWA) roles, pursuing Talent Partnerships under the EU Migration and Mobility Dialogue, and introducing digital systems like the PAKTOK App, Pak. Emigrant Management Framework, and e-Informed Migration Framework. Emigration outreach will also expand to underrepresented regions including Sindh, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, while Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TEVTA) curricula are aligned with NAVTTC and international bodies through Centres of Excellence (CoEs) with dedicated inclusion for women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented communities.
The policy further consolidates worker protection, diaspora engagement, and returnee reintegration into its holistic framework. To safeguard workers, the state is establishing an International Call Centre for rapid complaint redressal, dedicated Special Courts for fast-track dispute resolution, retaining local law firms in Destination Countries across the GCC, and introducing an EOBI Pension Scheme alongside education vouchers for workers' children. Simultaneously, formal remittance channels will be bolstered through the Sohni Dharti Remittance Program (SDRP), Roshan Digital Account (RDA), and Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs) to curb informal Hawala/Hundi routes, while returning emigrants will benefit from a comprehensive profiling database, referral networks, and a formal equivalency program to recognize foreign qualifications and skills.
The National Emigration and Welfare Policy 2026 will be executed across three phased intervals: Short-Term (1 year), Medium-Term (2 years), and Long-Term (3 years). To maintain accountability and seamless inter-agency coordination, a high-level Task Force chaired by the Federal Minister for OP&HRD will directly monitor implementation progress. Concluding his address, Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain expressed deep appreciation to provincial leadership, international partners like the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for their pivotal role in finalizing the policy, ensuring every Pakistani worker steps abroad with confidence and returns with pride.
