LAHORE: In a major relief for aspiring overseas workers, the Punjab government has introduced the Parwaaz Card, offering interest-free loans of up to Rs1 million to help eligible applicants meet the upfront costs of securing employment abroad.
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The initiative, being implemented through the Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF), is aimed at removing one of the biggest financial barriers faced by migrant workers, including expenses related to visa processing, medical examinations, air tickets and other mandatory pre-departure requirements.
The facility is available exclusively to individuals who have already obtained a confirmed overseas job offer but need financial assistance before travelling. By easing the burden of initial migration costs, the programme is expected to enable more skilled workers from Punjab to access employment opportunities abroad.
Eligible applicants must be residents of Punjab and have a valid job offer from an overseas employer. The application process requires submitting relevant documentation, including proof of employment and financial need. Priority will be given to those in high-demand occupations to maximize the program’s impact. Additionally, successful applicants will receive guidance on managing their finances effectively while preparing for their new roles abroad. The Punjab government aims to enhance the skill set of its workforce, ensuring that migrants are well-equipped for international job markets.
To qualify for the Parwaaz Card, applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC), and be permanent residents of Punjab. They must also have secured a confirmed overseas job offer with a monthly salary of less than SAR5,000, or its equivalent in another currency.
The scheme is open to both male and female applicants, including skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria.
Loan Coverage
Successful applicants can obtain an interest-free loan of up to Rs1 million to cover essential pre-departure expenses required for overseas employment. These include visa processing charges, medical examinations, airfare, Protector registration fees, skills testing and verification, and payments to licensed Overseas Employment Promoters.
The amount approved will depend on the verified cost of the applicant’s overseas employment requirements.
Application Process
Eligible candidates with a confirmed foreign job offer can apply through the official Parwaaz Card online portal by registering an account, filling in their personal and employment details, uploading the required documents and submitting the digital application form.
Applicants can also track the progress of their applications online throughout the verification and approval stages.
Officials said all applications will undergo a thorough verification process, warning that any false, misleading or incomplete information could result in rejection or disqualification.
The Punjab government launched the Parwaaz Card to reduce the financial obstacles that often prevent workers from taking up overseas employment. By providing interest-free financing for mandatory pre-departure expenses, the initiative aims to expand access to international job opportunities while promoting legal, safe and regulated labour migration.
