The number of Pakistanis travelling abroad for employment declined in 2025, reflecting a noticeable slowdown in overseas workforce migration compared to the previous year.
Official data from the Protectorate of Emigrants shows that 686,292 Pakistanis went overseas for jobs during the first 11 months of 2025. In comparison, 727,391 people left the country for employment in the same period last year, a drop of more than 41,000.
Sindh accounted for a significant share of the total outflow. Records indicate that 52,449 individuals, including workers from Karachi, departed the province to seek overseas employment during the year.
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Among destinations, Saudi Arabia remained the top choice for Pakistani workers. The United Arab Emirates ranked second, followed by Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Interior Minister has reiterated that authorities will take strict action against individuals and agents who violate foreign employment rules. Officials say the government aims to ensure transparency, protect workers’ rights, and curb illegal recruitment practices.
The latest figures highlight shifting labour trends and underline the importance of regulated overseas employment as Pakistan continues to rely on remittances as a key pillar of its economy.
