Pakistani Skilled Workers to Kuwait 2025

Pakistani Skilled Workers to Kuwait 2025

In a major development for overseas employment opportunities, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD) has officially resumed sending skilled workers to Kuwait. This decision follows the lifting of a 19-year visa ban by the Kuwaiti government earlier this year, marking a new chapter in Pakistan-Kuwait labor relations.1

The long-standing visa restriction, originally imposed over security concerns, had barred Pakistanis from obtaining work, family, business, and tourist visas since the early 2000s. Now, with that door finally reopened, Pakistan is gearing up to deploy its skilled workforce to one of the most sought-after labor markets in the Gulf region.

Kuwait Lifts Visa Ban After Nearly Two Decades

In May 2025, Kuwait officially lifted the ban on Pakistani nationals—a move welcomed by government officials, businesses, and overseas employment agencies. The original restriction also applied to citizens from Iran, Syria, and Afghanistan, but Pakistan’s case received special attention due to the large expatriate community and remittance contributions that have historically benefited both countries.

This decision not only allows the issuance of work visas but also reopens family, tourist, and business visa categories. It comes at a critical time when remittances from Pakistani workers are essential for stabilizing Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves amidst ongoing economic challenges.

Overseas Employment Corporation to Oversee Recruitment

The recruitment process for sending Pakistani skilled workers to Kuwait will be managed by the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC)—a state-run body operating under the OP&HRD Ministry. The OEC will serve as the sole facilitator, ensuring that the selection and deployment processes remain transparent, efficient, and merit-based.

Available Job Roles

According to the official notification, the current recruitment drive includes a range of roles across multiple skill levels. The job categories are as follows:

• Warehouse Supervisors

• Warehouse Coordinators

• Warehousemen

• Carpenters

• Assistant Furniture Workers

• Unskilled Workers

• Drivers

Each of these positions offers Pakistani workers a chance to earn a better livelihood while contributing significantly to Pakistan’s economy through foreign remittances.

Requirements for Key Positions

While many of the listed roles require basic or intermediate skills, the Warehouse Supervisor position has specific eligibility criteria:

• Age limit: Under 35 years

• Education: Diploma or Bachelor’s degree

• Language: Fluency in English

• Experience: Proven background in retail warehouse or logistics operations

Candidates must also demonstrate an understanding of warehouse management systems and possess leadership qualities to manage warehouse staff and inventory.

Application Deadline: August 15, 2025

The deadline for submitting applications and required documents is August 15, 2025. Interested candidates are advised to apply well before the cut-off date to avoid last-minute issues.

The OEC has provided online portals and helpline support to facilitate the application process, ensuring accessibility even for workers from remote regions. Those interested are urged to verify job details, eligibility requirements, and documentation procedures directly from the official OEC website or designated government channels to avoid scams or fake agents.

Impact on the Economy: Remittances and Job Creation

Pakistan relies heavily on remittances sent by overseas workers. In FY24, remittances amounted to over $30 billion, making them one of the largest sources of foreign currency inflow.

With Kuwait now back on the map as a labor destination, Pakistan stands to benefit immensely. Here’s how:

• Boost to Foreign Exchange Reserves: Increased remittances can help reduce the current account deficit and stabilize the rupee.

• Job Creation: With rising unemployment at home, overseas labor markets provide crucial job opportunities.

• Skill Development: Exposure to international standards and training helps returning workers bring back valuable experience.

Moreover, the return of Pakistanis to Kuwait will strengthen bilateral ties and potentially open doors for more government-to-government (G2G) agreements in the Gulf region.

Government’s Role in Protecting Workers

The OP&HRD Ministry has reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of overseas Pakistanis. Efforts are underway to:

• Ensure legal protections and fair labor contracts for workers in Kuwait.

• Facilitate pre-departure orientation programs to prepare workers for life abroad.

• Offer grievance redress mechanisms in collaboration with Pakistan’s embassies and missions.

In recent years, Pakistan has enhanced cooperation with countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, and the reopening of the Kuwaiti labor market is seen as another step in the right direction.

A Glimmer of Hope for Job Seekers

With domestic job creation struggling to keep up with population growth, overseas employment serves as a lifeline for thousands of households. The resumption of labor migration to Kuwait will not only alleviate pressure on the local job market but also offer long-term socio-economic benefits.

Skilled and semi-skilled workers—especially in fields like logistics, carpentry, and driving—can now look forward to decent wages, better working conditions, and international work exposure.

What’s Next?

Following this announcement, experts expect:

• High application volume, particularly from provinces like Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

• Potential expansion of job categories in later phases.

• Opportunities for female workers and professionals in sectors like health and education, subject to bilateral discussions.

The OP&HRD Ministry is also exploring similar opportunities in Romania, Greece, Germany, and other countries, aiming to diversify the destinations for Pakistani labor.