FIA launches pre-departure facilitation desks for international travellers

Islamabad: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday announced the launch of “Pre-Departure Facilitation Desks” by the Federal Investigation Agency to assist passengers travelling abroad.

In a post on X, Naqvi said the desks will provide guidance and assistance to international travellers regarding immigration procedures and clearances to ensure a smoother and hassle-free travel experience. He added that the service will be available in person as well as through helplines and email, with relevant details displayed at airports, border points and on the FIA website.

The initiative comes amid recent reports and social media claims about the offloading of passengers from international flights over documentation issues. The FIA has previously rejected allegations of arbitrary offloading, stating in November that passengers with complete and legal travel documents are being facilitated.

The agency clarified that only those attempting to travel abroad through illegal means are stopped after due profiling, as part of the government’s broader efforts to curb human smuggling and illegal migration.

Last month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also directed authorities to ensure the protection of Pakistani travellers holding valid travel documents following reports of passengers being offloaded from flights.

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While chairing a review meeting on measures to eradicate human trafficking and illegal travel, the prime minister ordered strict action against individuals travelling abroad illegally or using dubious documents. However, he stressed that special care must be taken to ensure that passengers with valid documents are not inconvenienced.

The prime minister further instructed the Protectorate of Emigrants to enhance coordination with the FIA and other relevant institutions to facilitate citizens travelling abroad legally for employment.