Labor Exodus: Over 762,000 Pakistanis Registered for Overseas Employment in 2025.
Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26 overseas employment
Over 762,000 Pakistanis registered for overseas jobs in 2025, highlighting the country’s ongoing dependence on labour migration as domestic employment opportunities remain insufficient for a rapidly expanding workforce.
According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26, a total of 762,499 workers were registered through the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment during the year, demonstrating continued international demand for Pakistani labour, particularly in Gulf countries and other foreign markets.
Government officials regard overseas employment as a vital contributor to foreign exchange earnings and economic stability, especially as remittances continue to serve as a major pillar of the country’s external finances.
The survey reported that workers’ remittances reached $30.3 billion during July-March FY26, marking an 8.2% increase compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year. Remittance inflows have become one of Pakistan’s most dependable sources of external financing, helping to reduce the impact of trade deficits, strengthen foreign exchange reserves, and support household spending.
The latest data also underscores the demographic pressures confronting policymakers. Notably, 26.56% of the population falls within the 15-29 age group, placing significant pressure on the economy to create sufficient employment opportunities for young people entering the workforce.
The survey noted that the government has broadened several youth-focused programmes, including vocational training initiatives and concessional financing schemes.
The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development also granted 75 new licences to Overseas Employment Promoters, increasing the total number of active licence holders to 2,697.
As the country’s working-age population continues to rise, experts maintain that sustainable long-term growth will require the creation of productive domestic employment opportunities alongside continued participation in international labour markets.
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