Pakistan Resumes Skilled Worker Exports to Kuwait

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Pakistan is set to resume exporting skilled workers to Kuwait, following the Gulf nation’s decision to lift a 19-year visa ban, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). This development opens new job opportunities for Pakistani professionals, boosting remittances and strengthening bilateral ties.

The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD) announced that the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC), a department under its purview, will facilitate the export of skilled workers to Kuwait. This follows Kuwait’s May 2025 decision to resume issuing work, family, business, and tourist visas to Pakistani nationals, ending a ban imposed in 2006 due to security concerns. The APP reported that the demand for Pakistani workers is rising globally, driven by effective government policies that enhance workforce competitiveness. Specific roles in demand include warehouse supervisors, requiring a diploma or bachelor’s degree, fluency in English, and 3-5 years of experience in retail or logistics, with a maximum age of 35.

Dr. Zaffar Iqbal, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Kuwait, emphasized the economic significance of this move, noting that it will bolster Pakistan’s foreign reserves through increased remittances. He confirmed that negotiations for a labor Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) are nearing completion, which will regulate and protect Pakistani workers’ rights in Kuwait. The agreement aims to streamline recruitment and ensure fair treatment, with some provisions already in effect.

This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to address its economic challenges by expanding overseas employment. In 2024, the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BE&OE) sent 727,381 skilled workers abroad, primarily to Gulf countries, contributing to a 25.2% remittance surge in January 2025, reaching $3 billion. Kuwait’s labor market, particularly in healthcare and construction, offers significant opportunities for Pakistan’s skilled workforce, with 1,200 nurses expected to join soon.

The resumption of worker exports marks a milestone in Pakistan-Kuwait relations, fostering economic cooperation and addressing Kuwait’s labor shortages. The government’s focus on skill development and international partnerships is expected to further enhance Pakistan’s standing in global labor markets, providing a lifeline to its economy amidst ongoing challenges.