Govt Issues Advisory Regarding Foreign Work Visas

The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE) has issued a fresh warning advising citizens not to trust travel agencies that claim they can arrange foreign work visas.

The bureau stated that these private agents have no legal role in overseas employment and must not receive any payment for visa or job processing.

BEOE emphasized that only licensed Overseas Employment Promoters (OEPs) are authorized to recruit Pakistani workers for jobs abroad. The bureau urged applicants to cross-check an agency’s status using the official directory available at www.beoe.gov.pk/list-of-oeps.

The advisory also addressed growing confusion around so-called “Azad visas.” The bureau said that no country issues a visa that allows unrestricted employment.

Every legitimate work visa is tied to a specific employer or sponsor, and workers are legally required to remain with that sponsor unless they obtain formal permission to transfer.

BEOE cautioned that switching employers without authorization can result in legal penalties, deportation, or the loss of employment rights. The bureau added that in case of an on-the-job accident, only the sponsoring company holds responsibility for assistance or compensation.

Earnings made outside a worker’s approved contract fall under illegal employment. Officials urged the public to remain cautious, noting that promises of free, open, or transferable visas are often used to deceive jobseekers.