FIA Can Now Trace Pakistanis in 8 Countries Through Expanded Overseas Network

FIA Can Now Trace Pakistanis in 8 Countries Through Expanded Overseas Network

Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has expanded its overseas immigration and law-enforcement network to eight countries, strengthening its ability to coordinate with foreign authorities in cases involving Pakistani nationals. The development is part of Pakistan’s efforts to address human smuggling, trafficking, immigration fraud and irregular migration. Through immigration link offices established at Pakistani diplomatic missions, FIA officers can work directly with foreign immigration departments, border-control agencies and law-enforcement institutions. The network currently covers Oman, Iran, Greece, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The overseas offices are responsible for several immigration-related activities, including nationality verification, checking travel documents, investigating suspected document fraud, assisting detained Pakistanis and coordinating repatriation. They also provide support in cases involving suspected human smugglers and trafficking networks. The offices serve as a communication channel between Pakistani authorities and foreign agencies, helping facilitate information exchange and legal procedures involving Pakistani citizens abroad.

The expansion is particularly relevant to cases involving illegal migration to Europe. Countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey are important locations in migration routes used by Pakistani nationals. FIA officers can coordinate with local authorities to investigate suspected facilitators, identify victims and assist in the return of individuals where required. The agency also works to identify fraudulent travel documents and information connected with suspected human-smuggling activities.

According to reported figures, the FIA's United Kingdom office, established in December 2025, has handled more than 150 nationality-verification cases and over 124 documentation-related cases. Meanwhile, its office in Iran reported more than 34,000 safe repatriations between 2024 and August 2026. These activities demonstrate the role of overseas link offices in immigration coordination,

The development does not mean that FIA officers have unrestricted authority to arrest Pakistani citizens in foreign countries. Any arrest, detention or deportation must follow the applicable laws and procedures of the country concerned. FIA can coordinate with foreign authorities, share relevant information and pursue legal cooperation through established channels. International mechanisms, including INTERPOL procedures, may also be relevant in cases involving wanted individuals.

The government is also considering expanding the overseas immigration network to Saudi Arabia and Poland. If implemented, the proposed expansion would increase Pakistan's institutional presence in additional countries where Pakistani nationals live, work or travel.

The initiative reflects a broader effort to strengthen international cooperation against immigration-related offences while improving assistance for Pakistanis abroad. The expanded network is expected to support investigations, document verification, repatriation arrangements and coordination with foreign law-enforcement agencies.