Is e-protector mandatory for Pakistanis holding work visas for foreign countries?

2026-01-29 - 08:31

ISLAMABAD – The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment has issued a clarification regarding the new online protector requirement for overseas employment. It rejected rumors circulating on social media that, starting from February 1, 2026, the online Protector (E-Protector) Certificate would become mandatory for all individuals seeking jobs abroad. The Bureau has refuted these claims, stating that there is no such directive in place and that these rumors are baseless. It was also falsely reported that individuals with existing Protector stickers or stamps in their passports would also be required to obtain the e-protector certificate. The Bureau urged the public, particularly those aspiring to work abroad, to disregard these misleading reports and to rely solely on official and credible sources for information. The BIE emphasized the importance of responsibility and truthfulness in spreading information, urging citizens to verify details through official channels. The clarification aims to prevent unnecessary confusion and anxiety among individuals, reminding everyone that they should trust only government-provided updates and avoid falling for unverified rumors. Latest Visa Protector Fee For emigrants who opt to go through Overseas Employment Promoters (OEP), the fee structure includes service charges, welfare fund contributions, insurance premiums, registration fees, and the OEC fee. The total cost for an emigrant using an OEP stands at Rs. 22,200. A breakdown of the fees is as follows: OEP Service Charges: Rs. 15,000 (including Rs. 6,000 for processing cases) Welfare Fund (OPF): Rs. 4,000 Insurance Premium: Rs. 2,500 Registration Fee: Rs. 500 OEC Fee: Rs. 200 For those opting for direct employment, the total cost is lower, amounting to Rs. 9,200. The breakdown is as follows: Welfare Fund (OPF): Rs. 4,000 Insurance Premium: Rs. 2,500 Registration Fee: Rs. 2,500 OEC Fee: Rs. 200