The UAE has introduced a new requirement for individuals seeking employment visas, mandating them to provide a police character certificate. This move, announced by Adnan Paracha, Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Overseas Employment Promoters Association (POEPA), comes in response to complaints from the UAE government about the involvement of some Pakistanis in begging and other illegal activities.
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Paracha welcomed the decision, noting that it aligns with the UAE’s efforts to maintain law and order, particularly as the country is an essential destination for Pakistani workers. This requirement follows the UAE’s recent extension of its ban on visit visas from 24 to 30 cities in Pakistan, which has contributed to difficulties in securing work visas for many Pakistanis. Last year, over 100,000 individuals were unable to obtain employment in the UAE.
The UAE remains a significant source of remittances for Pakistan, second only to Saudi Arabia. As such, the new visa regulations are expected to affect many who depend on employment in the Gulf for financial stability.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has taken action by adding the names of 4,300 beggars to its Exit Control List (ECL), in collaboration with Saudi Arabia, as part of efforts to curb illegal activities abroad.
