The Punjab government, under the initiative of Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz, is ready to launch the ‘Punjab Parwaaz Card’. It is a new programme aimed at helping skilled workers find legal employment overseas by providing interest-free loans for moving abroad.
CM Punjab will officially launch the card on January 20, 2026.
The scheme is designed only for residents of Punjab who have secured, or are seeking jobs outside Pakistan.
Under the programme, eligible applicants can receive interest-free loans to cover key pre-departure costs. These include medical tests, visa processing, protectorate fees, air tickets, skill verification tests, and charges paid to licensed Overseas Employment Promoters (OEPs).
Officials said the initiative is intended to support safe migration and increase foreign remittances, which play a major role in Pakistan’s economy.
Eligibility
To qualify for Parwaaz Card, applicants must be 18 years or older, hold a valid CNIC, and be residents of Punjab. Both men and women can apply.
Those seeking loans must already have a job offer from an overseas employer, while job seekers without offers can use the portal to access verified international job listings.
Labour experts say the Parwaaz Card could help reduce unsafe migration practices if implemented carefully and monitored closely. However, they stress that awareness and proper oversight will be key to ensuring the programme benefits genuine workers.
The Punjab government says the initiative reflects its broader effort to support employment opportunities while safeguarding the rights of overseas workers.
The government has also set up facilitation systems to guide applicants through the process and encourage timely responses to employers and OEPs.
Rules to follow
The programme highlights strict rules for applicants. Authorities warn that fake documents, false information, or misuse of the online portal could lead to immediate rejection, blacklisting or legal action. Sharing login details or applying for jobs without meeting eligibility requirements is also prohibited.
According to programme guidelines, repeated violations may result in permanent bans from the system.
Officials say these measures are meant to protect workers from fraud and ensure transparency.
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