Pakistanis planning to work in the UAE are now required to submit a Police Character Certificate (PCC) as part of the new visa application process. This measure comes amid stricter regulations introduced by the UAE to curb illegal activities, fraud, and criminal offenses involving foreign workers. The new directive is expected to significantly impact the visa approval process, especially for Pakistani nationals.
New UAE Work Visa Requirement for Pakistanis
In a recent update, the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BEOE) of Pakistan announced that all individuals applying for UAE work visas will now need to obtain a Police Character Certificate before proceeding with the protector registration. The directive, which was communicated through the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), mandates that this certificate be presented as a mandatory requirement for visa processing.
What is a Police Character Certificate (PCC)?
A Police Character Certificate is a document that verifies an individual’s criminal background, stating whether they have any history of criminal activities or charges. This certificate is issued by local law enforcement authorities and serves as proof of an individual’s good conduct, which is now a key factor for those wishing to secure a work visa for the UAE.
Why the New Requirement?
The new visa regulation is part of the UAE’s efforts to tackle growing concerns over criminal activities committed by foreign nationals, particularly those from Pakistan. Reports have surfaced about a rise in illegal actions involving Pakistani expatriates, and some sources claim that over 5,000 Pakistanis are currently in UAE prisons. These actions have negatively impacted the reputation of the Pakistani community and have led to stricter visa protocols.
Impact on Pakistanis Seeking Work in the UAE
The tightening of UAE visa policies is not only due to criminal activities but also linked to widespread visa misuse and fraud. Pakistanis, particularly from specific cities, have faced difficulties in securing work visas. The UAE government has reportedly blacklisted residents from 24 Pakistani cities, placing them on a “No-Visa List.” This action is targeted at areas where the misuse of work visas has been particularly prevalent.
Despite viral rumors suggesting a complete visa ban for Pakistanis, the Pakistani Foreign Office has denied these claims. The Foreign Office clarified that the UAE retains the sovereign right to issue or deny visas, and the decision to tighten visa issuance is based on internal regulatory measures.
Challenges for Pakistani Workers in the UAE
The tightening of visa regulations has created additional hurdles for Pakistani workers, especially younger and single men, who are now facing increased scrutiny when applying for work visas. While some improvements have been made in the visa process, the overall situation remains challenging for those looking to work in the UAE.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Police Character Certificate requirement marks a significant shift in the UAE’s visa policies for Pakistani workers. As both countries work to address concerns about criminal activities and visa misuse, Pakistani nationals planning to move to the UAE for employment should be prepared for a more rigorous application process. This new regulation aims to create a safer and more transparent environment for expatriates, ensuring that only those with clean records are granted work visas.
For those intending to work in the UAE, it’s crucial to start the application process early, secure the necessary documents, and comply with all new requirements to avoid delays in visa approval.
