In a significant move to curb illegal migration to Europe, the Pakistani government has blacklisted more than 50,000 passports, officials confirmed. This action follows recommendations from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and is part of a broader crackdown on illegal traveling.

The passports of hundreds of individuals have also been canceled as authorities intensify measures against human smuggling. This initiative comes in response to a troubling increase in incidents where Pakistani migrants have lost their lives during perilous sea crossings.

Since 2017, all individuals deported from foreign countries have had their passports blacklisted to deter illegal migration. This decision was made after a high-level task force meeting, during which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sought clarification from FIA officials regarding the actions taken against deported individuals.

Following the meeting, the FIA submitted lists of deported persons to the Ministry of Interior, resulting in widespread blacklisting. However, individuals with valid visas or legal travel documents have been granted the opportunity to appeal their status.

The Ministry of Law is currently reviewing cases where legal rulings may influence blacklisting decisions.