ISLAMABAD, July 14 (Alliance News) : Around 336,999 Pakistanis went abroad for employment from January 1 to June 30 this year through the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BEOE), an attached department of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development.
The increasing number of job seekers heading overseas reflects the success of the government’s proactive employment policies, which are opening new opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers.
According to an official from BEOE, over 10 million Pakistanis have secured overseas jobs since the Bureau’s establishment in 1971.
The record highest annual figure was noted in 2015, when 946,571 individuals were employed abroad.
At present, more than 116,000 foreign job vacancies are available through BEOE. Overseas employment plays a critical role in reducing domestic unemployment and generating foreign remittances, which are vital for Pakistan’s economic stability.
These remittances contribute to paying off national debt, covering import bills, and funding development projects.
The BEOE regulates and monitors emigration processes, primarily through Overseas Employment Promoters (OEPs) operating in the private sector. It also oversees direct employment routes used by individuals through personal efforts or contacts abroad.
The Bureau compiles comprehensive migration data, which is essential for government planning and policymaking.
Established under the Emigration Ordinance of 1979, its core responsibilities include regulating emigration, protecting workers’ interests, advising the federal government on policy matters, and ensuring pre-departure briefings and insurance coverage for migrant workers.
The Bureau also supervises OEPs through seven regional Protectorates of Emigrants and manages the State Life Emigrants Insurance Fund (SLEIF), in addition to formalizing manpower export agreements with foreign nations.
