The government prepares significant immigration reforms and demands a crackdown on fraudulent visa networks.

On Friday, the federal government issued an order for a vigorous crackdown on mafias engaged in the counterfeit visa industry.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi presided over a special meeting that determined to take more aggressive measures against travelers who try to enter the country with fake passports.

During the conference, officials decided to implement changes to the immigration system for the ease of travelers and to make the protection issuance system infallible. Within seven days, the ministries have requested final recommendations.

Authorities were instructed to initiate a successful crackdown on those engaged in fraudulent visa operations and agent networks during the meeting.

According to Naqvi, an AI-based pilot project would begin in Islamabad in January with the goal of reducing illegal immigration. Authorities will be able to identify in advance which passengers are qualified to fly and which are not thanks to this AI technology.

He further stated that steps will be taken to prevent deported individuals from obtaining a visa in the future if their passport has been revoked.

A zero-tolerance policy against agent mafias and fraudulent visas will be implemented, and the National Police Bureau will issue a standardized international driver’s license. He added that Pakistan is working with other nations to raise the green passport’s profile internationally.

Naqvi pointed out that those who travel overseas illegally harm the nation’s reputation, and immigration reforms are meant to help citizens and enhance Pakistan’s standing abroad.

Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, stated during the meeting that a completely transparent protection system is urgently needed. He emphasized the need for genuine documentation for those traveling on labor visas. He promised that in order to enhance the immigration and protection systems, his ministry will work closely with the Interior Ministry.

In addition to discussing issues with e-driving licenses, protector stamps, and immigration procedures, the conference examined steps taken against undocumented immigrants and others with inadequate documentation.

The NADRA chairman, FIA DGs and directors, DG Passport and Immigration, the interior secretary and special secretary, the secretary for Pakistanis living abroad, and representatives from other pertinent departments attended the conference.