Over 727,000 Pakistanis Migrated for Employment in Current Fiscal Year: Economic Survey

Pakistan’s latest Economic Survey reveals that 727,000 workers left the country for overseas employment in the current fiscal year, highlighting a significant rise in labor migration. This trend underscores both the challenges in Pakistan’s domestic job market and the growing reliance on remittances as a key economic stabilizer.

Key Findings from the Economic Survey

1. Record High Migration for Employment

   • The figure of 727,000 migrant workers marks one of the highest in recent years.

   • The majority moved to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman, which remain top destinations for Pakistani labor.

   • A smaller but growing number are also seeking opportunities in Europe and East Asia, particularly in sectors like construction, healthcare, and IT.

2. Comparison with Previous Years

   • The current fiscal year’s numbers show an increase compared to previous years, indicating a rising trend in labor migration.

   • Factors such as economic instability, inflation, and unemployment in Pakistan are pushing more workers to seek jobs abroad.

3. Impact on Remittances

   • Overseas Pakistanis sent back over $30 billion in remittances in the last fiscal year, a crucial source of foreign exchange.

   • With more workers migrating, remittances are expected to grow, helping stabilize Pakistan’s external account.

Why Are So Many Pakistanis Moving Abroad?

Several factors contribute to this surge in labor migration:

1. Limited Job Opportunities in Pakistan

   • Pakistan’s economy has struggled with slow growth, high inflation, and unemployment.

   • The formal job market cannot absorb the 2 million young people entering the workforce annually, forcing many to look abroad.

2. Better Wages and Working Conditions

   • Countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE offer higher salaries, especially in construction, healthcare, and engineering.

   • Many skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, IT experts) find better career growth overseas than in Pakistan.

3. Government and Private Recruitment Policies

   • The Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BEOE) has streamlined processes for overseas employment.

   • Private recruitment agencies are also facilitating job placements in foreign companies.

4. Economic Crisis in Pakistan

   • Rising inflation (over 30% in recent years) and currency devaluation have reduced purchasing power.

   • Many workers see migration as the only way to support their families financially.

Challenges Faced by Migrant Workers

While overseas employment offers financial benefits, many workers face difficulties:

• Exploitation and Unfair Contracts – Some face low wages, excessive working hours, or withheld salaries in Gulf countries.

• High Recruitment Costs – Many workers pay hefty fees to agents, leading to debt bondage.

• Legal and Visa Issues – Some end up in illegal employment due to fraudulent recruiters.

Economic Impact on Pakistan

1. Boost in Remittances

   • Remittances contribute nearly 8-10% of Pakistan’s GDP, helping cover trade deficits.

   • Increased migration could further strengthen this inflow.

2. Reduction in Unemployment Pressure

   • With limited local jobs, overseas employment acts as a pressure valve for unemployment.

3. Brain Drain Concerns

   • While low-skilled workers dominate migration, skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, IT experts) are also leaving, raising concerns about human capital loss.

Government Initiatives to Support Migrant Workers

• Skill Development Programs – To enhance employability in high-demand sectors abroad.

• Stricter Regulation of Recruitment Agencies – To prevent fraud and exploitation.

• Welfare Schemes – Such as insurance and legal aid for overseas workers.

Future Outlook

• If Pakistan’s economy does not improve, labor migration will continue rising.

• GCC countries will remain top destinations, but new markets like Europe and China may open more opportunities.

• Remittances will remain vital for Pakistan’s economic stability.

Conclusion

The record 727,000 workers migrating this year reflects both the struggles of Pakistan’s economy and the resilience of its workforce. While overseas employment provides immediate financial relief, long-term solutions—such as job creation, economic reforms, and better worker protections—are needed to reduce dependency on migration.

Reference:  رواں مالی سال 7 لاکھ 27ہزار افراد بیرون ممالک نوکریوں کیلئے گئے:اقتصادی سروے