Pakistan has witnessed a significant decline in overseas employment this year, with more than 41,000 fewer people leaving the country for work compared to 2024. Official figures from the Protectorate of Emigrants indicate that 686,272 Pakistanis went abroad for employment during 2025, down from 727,381 last year.
The decrease in overseas employment has been observed across all provinces. In the first eleven months of the year alone, 686,292 Pakistanis departed for jobs abroad, showing a clear nationwide slowdown. Major urban centers, including Karachi, also saw a reduction. Sindh recorded 52,494 departures, reflecting the trend even in traditional migration hubs.
Gulf countries continue to attract the majority of workers. Saudi Arabia remained the top destination for Pakistanis, followed by the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. These countries continue to offer employment opportunities for a variety of skill levels.
The United States, however, saw minimal intake, with only 897 Pakistani workers moving there. This makes the US one of the least preferred destinations for overseas employment during 2025.
The data also highlights the diversity of workers leaving Pakistan. Both skilled professionals and labour-class employees sought jobs abroad. Among them were doctors, nurses, accountants, engineers, pharmacists, agricultural experts, and artists. Semi-skilled and labour-class workers also contributed to the flow of overseas employment.
Other countries chosen by Pakistani workers included Japan, Central Asian nations, the United Kingdom, several European states, and African countries, indicating a broad range of employment markets beyond the Gulf region.
Officials suggest that several factors may be influencing this decline, including global demand for labour, visa policies, and domestic economic conditions. The trend also raises questions about Pakistan’s workforce and the future of overseas employment opportunities.
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Overall, the latest figures reflect a notable shift in migration patterns, showing that fewer Pakistanis are seeking work abroad this year compared to previous years, even as traditional destinations remain popular.
