Good news has emerged for UK Pakistani workers on work permits, as skilled workers will reportedly no longer be restricted to working only for their sponsoring employer. Under the upcoming changes, eligible UK Pakistani workers will have greater flexibility to work elsewhere during the remaining validity of their visa.
According to the UK government’s latest immigration rules update, skilled workers will also have greater protections, including the ability to report sponsors over issues such as excessive working hours, passport retention and underpayment of wages.
New rules for UK Pakistani workers
Under the new rules, skilled workers will be able to work beyond their existing sponsor during the remaining period of their current visa. The changes are scheduled to come into effect from October 8, 2026.
The development could provide greater employment flexibility for UK Pakistani workers who are currently dependent on their sponsoring employers.
The updated rules are also expected to strengthen protections for workers by allowing them to raise concerns about potential exploitation, including excessive working hours, employers holding passports and being paid below the required salary level.
PIA increases London flights
Meanwhile, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced an increase in its weekly flights to London.
From October 27, 2026, PIA plans to operate seven flights per week between Pakistan and London, compared with four weekly flights at present.
According to the airline’s spokesperson, five weekly flights will operate from Islamabad to London, while two flights will operate between Lahore and London.
The increase is aimed at meeting growing passenger demand on UK-bound routes and providing more travel options for overseas Pakistanis and other passengers.
For UK Pakistani workers, the combination of greater employment flexibility and increased flight options could make travel and work arrangements between Pakistan and the UK more convenient.