Travelling abroad: Unverified documentation will not be permitted: Naqvi

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday said that no passenger carrying valid and complete documents should be stopped from travelling abroad, but travelling abroad with unverified documentation would not be permitted.

During a visit to Islamabad International Airport, Naqvi interacted with passengers travelling abroad and spent two hours reviewing the immigration process. He issued strict orders for a crackdown on visa agents involved in facilitating illegal travel. Individuals attempting to travel abroad on fake or unverified documents were damaging Pakistan’s reputation, he said.

During the visit, Naqvi took serious notice of a passenger’s complaint regarding a shortage of staff at the immigration counters on November 7. He ordered an inquiry and directed officials to examine CCTV footage to determine the cause of the issue. He assured the complainant that such problems would not recur.

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“Passengers using forged documents or other illegal means bring disgrace to the country. This situation cannot be allowed to continue under any circumstances,” Naqvi said. He added that travel on unverified documentation would not be permitted.

Naqvi strongly criticized agent mafias for exploiting vulnerable people by promising overseas employment.

“These agents, driven by greed, are playing with the future of innocent citizens and tarnishing the country’s image. There will be no leniency for those involved in such activities,” he said.

The minister instructed airport authorities to ensure smooth facilitation for legitimate travellers while intensifying action against fraudulent agents.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025