ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has released its annual immigration report, shedding light on significant migration trends and border management accomplishments in Pakistan during the year 2023.
According to the report, over 8 million Pakistanis traveled abroad, while FIA Immigration processed a total of 19.5 million passengers at international arrival and departure counters.
Out of these, 7.1 million were Pakistani nationals returning to Pakistan, and 2.1 million were foreign visitors. Additionally, 8.1 million Pakistani nationals departed from the country, accompanied by 2.2 million foreign travelers.
Lahore Airport emerged as a prominent hub for overseas travel, with 3.6 million Pakistani passengers passing through its gates, followed closely by Islamabad Airport with 3.5 million passengers.
The report also highlights the FIA’s achievements in border management, including the processing of 2935 stop-list cases and the arrest of 1602 human traffickers.
Notably, 25 most-wanted human traffickers were apprehended during the year. Furthermore, the US State Department maintained Pakistan’s Tier 2 status in its annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, recognizing the country’s efforts in combating human trafficking.
The report underscores the implementation of stringent security measures at airports to prevent incidents such as beggars posing as Umrah pilgrims and ensure the safety of travelers.
