Pakistan to Launch AI-Based App to Curb Illegal Immigration, Says Mohsin Naqvi
Pakistan is preparing to roll out an AI-powered application aimed at preventing illegal immigration, with a pilot launch planned in Islamabad starting January. The decision was finalised during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi alongside Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain.
According to officials, the upcoming system is designed to evaluate passengers before travel, allowing authorities to determine eligibility in advance and block attempts by individuals using forged documents or fraudulent channels. The artificial intelligence infrastructure is expected to identify red flags automatically and support immigration officials in making evidence-based decisions.
The interior minister said that the new technology will also ensure that passports of deported individuals are cancelled promptly and that such persons are not reissued visas in the future. He stressed that repeated offenders bring significant reputational damage to Pakistan, adding that the state must protect its international standing through better oversight and strict enforcement.
Participants in the meeting agreed that systemic reforms are required to modernise the immigration process. Authorities have requested detailed recommendations within seven days to overhaul passenger facilitation, document verification and risk screening procedures. The National Police Bureau has also been tasked with issuing international driving licences as part of upcoming reforms.
A major focus of the upcoming initiative is a national crackdown on travel agents involved in issuing fake visas. Naqvi reiterated that a zero-tolerance policy will be maintained against those operating outside legal frameworks. The government also intends to prevent visa issuance to individuals previously deported from other countries.
The meeting further highlighted ongoing discussions with eight foreign governments concerning the global ranking of Pakistan’s passport and measures needed to improve its credibility. Officials believe that stricter compliance and better documentation standards will support these efforts.
Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasised that labour visas must be issued only after complete validation of documents. He said the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis will collaborate to strengthen the current protector and immigration systems and eliminate loopholes that enable fraudulent practices.
Government representatives also hinted at potential action against individuals residing abroad with invalid or forged documents. Authorities say such practices undermine legitimate labour migration efforts and place law-abiding workers at risk.
The session was attended by senior officials from key departments, including the Interior Ministry, the Overseas Pakistanis Division, NADRA, FIA, and Passport and Immigration Directorate. The government signaled its intent to introduce comprehensive measures that combine technology, regulation and enforcement to address the long-standing challenge of illegal immigration.
