ISLAMABAD: Pakistanis planning to travel abroad on visit or tourist visas in search of employment have been warned against assuming that such visas can easily be converted into work permits.
A common misconception among people seeking overseas employment is that they can travel on a visit or tourist visa, find a job after arrival and then conveniently switch their visa status to a work visa. Immigration and legal experts have clarified that visit visas are generally intended for tourism or short-term stays and do not permit employment.
Under immigration rules in many countries, working while holding a visit or tourist visa is prohibited. Although some countries may allow a change of visa status under specific and strict conditions, such provisions are not automatic and do not constitute a guaranteed right. Visa categories and eligibility requirements vary from country to country.
Those who work illegally while on a visit visa may face several risks, including unpaid wages, exploitation and the loss of legal employment protections. They may also be subject to fines, arrest or detention.
Illegal employment can also result in visa cancellation, deportation, blacklisting or restrictions on future entry into the country. It may further create difficulties when applying for legal visas in the future.
Authorities have advised prospective overseas workers not to rely on verbal assurances from agents claiming that applicants can “travel on a visit visa first and obtain a work visa later.”
Applicants have been advised to verify visa requirements directly through the official immigration authorities of the destination country rather than relying on agents or informal sources.
Pakistanis seeking employment abroad should use only legal migration channels. Before travelling, they should obtain a verified job offer, a valid work visa and a written employment contract, and complete the required Protector of Emigrants registration with the Government of Pakistan.