Comprehensive Report Highlights 17 Years of Pakistani Emigration Patterns

In the past 17 years, nearly 10 million Pakistanis have emigrated, with the highest number leaving during the PML-N government from 2013 to 2018. During this period, 3.5 million people left the country, peaking in 2015 when around 900,000 individuals emigrated. However, by 2018, emigration numbers dropped sharply by 60%, with only about 300,000 people leaving for jobs.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted migration trends, with a noticeable decline in 2020 and 2021. As restrictions eased in 2022, emigration surged again, reaching approximately 800,000—a trend that has continued into 2023. Since 2022, the emigration of highly skilled workers has increased to 5%, up from 2%, while the percentage of highly educated emigrants has remained at 3%.

In recent years, blue-collar workers and laborers have dominated the emigration scene, with 46% being unskilled laborers—a rise from 41% during the Imran Khan era. Skilled worker migration has decreased from 44% to 37%.

The destinations for Pakistani emigrants have also shifted. While Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Qatar have been traditional choices, post-COVID trends show a decline in Pakistani workers heading to the UAE, while Saudi Arabia has seen significant growth. Additionally, countries like the UK, Iraq, and Romania have emerged as new destinations for Pakistani job seekers in the post-pandemic period.

– Analyzed & Compiled By Pulse Consultant
– Source of Information: https://beoe.gov.pk/reports-and-statistics