One integrated platform bringing together reliable migration data, national policies, international frameworks, research, services and emerging developments across Pakistan. It makes information easier to access and compare, helping migrants, policymakers, researchers and practitioners understand trends, navigate governance frameworks and make informed decisions.
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PAKISTAN · MIGRATION & HUMAN MOBILITY · KEY FIGURES
Explore migration-related figures and their individual reference periods.
These DataBytes showcase new and interesting data relevant to migration in bite-sized form. The figures bring together indicators with different reference periods, populations and methodologies, so they should not be added together or interpreted as one combined dataset. Neither the data nor their methodology have been reviewed or endorsed by the Portal team. If you have questions about the showcased data, please contact the original source directly.
Navigate the data, policies, institutions, services and ideas that shape migration in Pakistan.
Explore evidence, trends, policy analysis, services and knowledge products shaping migration in Pakistan.
Understand migration concepts, global frameworks, corridors, perspectives, institutions and referral pathways.
REFERRAL & PROTECTION
Who Helps You Get to the Next Door?
LinkedIn article
MIGRATION DRIVERS
The People With the Most Reason to Leave Are Not Always the Ones Who Can
LinkedIn article
LABOUR MOBILITY
When the Market Moves
LinkedIn article
MIGRANT PROTECTION & POLICY
When a Pledge Becomes a Protection
OxDev article
AID FINANCING & SUSTAINABILITY
When Foreign Aid Stops, Who Stands?
OxDev article
CIVIL SOCIETY & GOVERNANCE
Civil Society's Role in Migration Governance
LinkedIn post
EXPLORE MIGRATION GOVERNANCE
Clear definitions for the concepts that shape human mobility, protection, labour, policy and migration data — with source references.
WHY TERMINOLOGY MATTERS
Migration language shapes policies, public discussions and access to rights. This glossary brings together concise definitions covering different forms of movement and the institutions, processes and evidence used to understand them. Select a theme or search a term to begin.
A–Z MIGRATION TERMINOLOGY
Search terminology, filter by theme, and open the linked reference resources.
Showing 1–18 of 227 terms
Tip: use the category dropdown to explore a specific topic.
| TERM / CONCEPT | DEFINITION | REFERENCE |
|---|---|---|
| MigrationGeneral Migration | Movement of persons away from their usual place of residence, either within a country or across an international border. | IOM (2019) |
| MigrantGeneral Migration | An umbrella term for a person who moves away from their usual residence, temporarily or permanently, for various reasons; it has no single universal legal definition. | IOM (2019) |
| Human mobilityGeneral Migration | A broad concept encompassing different forms of human movement, including migration, displacement and temporary mobility. | IOM (2019) |
| International migrationGeneral Migration | Movement involving a change in a person's country of usual residence. | UNSD (2025) |
| Internal migrationGeneral Migration | Movement of people within the borders of one country that involves a change of usual residence. | IOM (2019) |
| ImmigrationGeneral Migration | Movement into a country to establish residence, viewed from the receiving country's perspective. | IOM (2019) |
| EmigrationGeneral Migration | Departure from a country to establish residence elsewhere, viewed from the country of origin. | IOM (2019) |
| ImmigrantGeneral Migration | A person who moves into a country from another country to establish residence there. | IOM (2019) |
| EmigrantGeneral Migration | A person who leaves their country to establish residence in another country. | IOM (2019) |
| Country of originGeneral Migration | The country of nationality, birth or former habitual residence of a migrant, depending on the applicable context. | IOM (2019) |
| Country of destinationGeneral Migration | The country to which a person intends to migrate or has migrated. | IOM (2019) |
| Country of transitGeneral Migration | A country through which a person travels on the way to another destination. | IOM (2019) |
| Regular migrationGeneral Migration | Migration conducted in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations governing entry, stay and departure. | IOM (2019) |
| Irregular migrationGeneral Migration | Movement or stay taking place outside the immigration rules of the countries of origin, transit or destination. | IOM (2019) |
| Documented migrantGeneral Migration | A migrant possessing the documents and authorisations required for their entry, residence or activities under the applicable rules. | IOM (2019) |
| Undocumented migrantGeneral Migration | A migrant lacking documentation or authorisation required for entry, residence or employment, as applicable. | IOM (2019) |
| Voluntary migrationGeneral Migration | Migration undertaken where a person has a meaningful degree of choice over the decision to move. | IOM (2019) |
| Forced migrationGeneral Migration | A general descriptive term for movement involving force, coercion or circumstances that seriously restrict free choice. | IOM (2019) |
| Temporary migrationGeneral Migration | Movement involving an intended or authorised period of residence elsewhere that is limited in duration. | IOM (2019) |
| Permanent migrationGeneral Migration | Movement involving an intention or permission to settle in another country indefinitely. | IOM (2019) |
| Circular migrationGeneral Migration | Repeated movement between two or more countries or locations, often linked to employment, education or family circumstances. | IOM (2019) |
| Seasonal migrationGeneral Migration | Movement linked to particular seasons or seasonal activities, such as agricultural work. | IOM (2019) |
| Return migrationGeneral Migration | Movement back to a country or place of origin or former habitual residence after spending time elsewhere. | IOM (2019) |
| Onward migrationGeneral Migration | Further movement from an initial destination or transit country to another country. | IOM (2019) |
| Re-emigrationGeneral Migration | Migration out of a country again after an earlier return or migration episode. | IOM (2019) |
| Transit migrationGeneral Migration | Movement through one or more countries on the way to an intended final destination. | IOM (2019) |
| Mixed migrationGeneral Migration | Movements along similar routes by people with different circumstances, including refugees and other migrants with varying protection needs. | IOM (2019) |
| DiasporaGeneral Migration | Migrants and their descendants who maintain connections with their country of origin or ancestral homeland. | IOM (2019) |
| TransnationalismGeneral Migration | Maintenance of social, economic, political or cultural connections across national borders. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration corridorGeneral Migration | A migration relationship or pathway connecting specific countries of origin and destination. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration routeGeneral Migration | A geographical pathway followed by people moving between locations or countries. | IOM (2019) |
| Push factorsGeneral Migration | Conditions that encourage departure, such as unemployment, insecurity, discrimination or environmental stress. | IOM (2019) |
| Pull factorsGeneral Migration | Conditions that attract migrants to destinations, such as employment opportunities, safety or family networks. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration driversGeneral Migration | Economic, demographic, social, political and environmental factors that influence migration decisions and patterns. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration aspirationsGeneral Migration | A person's desire or preference to migrate, regardless of whether movement eventually occurs. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration decision-makingGeneral Migration | The process by which people assess whether, when, where and how to migrate. | IOM (2019) |
| RefugeeRefugees & Displacement | A person outside their country who meets the applicable refugee criteria because of a well-founded fear of persecution or other serious threats covered by relevant refugee law. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Asylum-seekerRefugees & Displacement | A person seeking international protection whose refugee or other protection claim may not yet have been finally determined. | UNHCR Glossary |
| AsylumRefugees & Displacement | Protection granted by a State to a person within its territory or jurisdiction who requires safety from persecution or serious harm. | UNHCR Glossary |
| International protectionRefugees & Displacement | Protection required when a person's country of origin cannot or will not safeguard them against serious threats to fundamental rights. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Refugee Status Determination (RSD)Refugees & Displacement | A legal or administrative process used to assess whether a person meets the applicable refugee definition. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Recognised refugeeRefugees & Displacement | A person whose refugee status has been formally recognised by a State or UNHCR, as applicable. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Prima facie refugee recognitionRefugees & Displacement | Recognition based on readily apparent conditions, often applied to groups fleeing widespread violence or persecution. | UNHCR Glossary |
| PersecutionRefugees & Displacement | Serious violations of fundamental rights, including threats to life or freedom, for reasons relevant to refugee law. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Well-founded fearRefugees & Displacement | A fear of persecution that has both a personal element and an objectively reasonable basis. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Non-refoulementRefugees & Displacement | The principle prohibiting the return of a person to a place where they face persecution or other specified serious harm. | UNHCR Glossary |
| RefoulementRefugees & Displacement | Removal or return of a person to a territory where they face risks protected against by the principle of non-refoulement. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Forced displacementRefugees & Displacement | Movement away from home caused by conflict, persecution, violence, disasters or other coercive circumstances. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Internally Displaced Person (IDP)Refugees & Displacement | A person forced or obliged to leave their home or habitual residence who has not crossed an internationally recognised State border. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Cross-border displacementRefugees & Displacement | Displacement involving the crossing of an international border. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Protracted displacementRefugees & Displacement | A situation where displaced people remain in prolonged uncertainty without adequate durable solutions. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Stateless personRefugees & Displacement | A person whom no State considers a national under the operation of its law. | UNHCR Glossary |
| StatelessnessRefugees & Displacement | The condition of not being legally recognised as a national by any State. | UNHCR Glossary |
| NationalityRefugees & Displacement | The legal relationship between an individual and a State, generally establishing rights and obligations. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Statelessness Determination Procedure (SDP)Refugees & Displacement | A process used to establish whether a person meets the legal definition of a stateless person. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Temporary protectionRefugees & Displacement | A time-limited arrangement providing immediate protection or stay to people fleeing crisis situations. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Complementary protectionRefugees & Displacement | Protection for people who do not meet refugee criteria but cannot safely return because of serious threats. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Subsidiary protectionRefugees & Displacement | A form of international protection, particularly in European legal systems, for individuals facing serious harm without meeting refugee criteria. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Durable solutionsRefugees & Displacement | Long-term responses to displacement-related protection needs, including voluntary repatriation, local integration and resettlement. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Voluntary repatriationRefugees & Displacement | A refugee's voluntary return to their country of origin in conditions of safety and dignity. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Local integrationRefugees & Displacement | The process through which refugees establish lasting legal, social and economic ties in their country of asylum. | UNHCR Glossary |
| ResettlementRefugees & Displacement | Transfer of refugees from a country of asylum to another State that agrees to admit them with a pathway to permanent residence. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Complementary pathwaysRefugees & Displacement | Legal admission opportunities for refugees, including employment, education and family-based pathways, separate from resettlement. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Humanitarian admissionRefugees & Displacement | Entry and stay arrangements granted for humanitarian or protection reasons under a receiving country's framework. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Family reunificationRefugees & Displacement | The process of bringing family members separated by migration or displacement back together. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Unaccompanied childRefugees & Displacement | A child separated from both parents and other relatives and not cared for by an adult responsible under law or custom. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Separated childRefugees & Displacement | A child separated from both parents or their primary caregiver, although other relatives may accompany them. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Host communityRefugees & Displacement | People living in an area receiving refugees, displaced populations or other migrants. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Host countryRefugees & Displacement | A country providing residence, asylum, protection or another form of stay to people arriving from elsewhere. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Labour migrationLabour Migration | Movement of persons between regions or countries for employment or employment-seeking purposes. | ILO (2021) |
| Migrant workerLabour Migration | A person who is to engage, is engaging or has engaged in paid activity in a State of which they are not a national, under the 1990 UN Migrant Workers Convention. | ILO (2021) |
| Migrant for employmentLabour Migration | A person who migrates internationally to take up employment, as defined by the applicable labour migration framework. | ILO (2021) |
| Temporary migrant workerLabour Migration | A migrant worker whose employment or residence in another country is authorised or intended for a limited period. | ILO (2021) |
| Seasonal workerLabour Migration | A person employed in activities dependent on seasonal conditions, frequently under temporary employment arrangements. | ILO (2021) |
| Cross-border workerLabour Migration | A person employed in a country other than their country of residence, generally returning home periodically. | ILO (2021) |
| Skilled migrationLabour Migration | Migration involving workers possessing specialised education, qualifications, experience or occupational skills. | ILO (2021) |
| Highly skilled migrantLabour Migration | A migrant with advanced qualifications, professional experience or specialised competencies. | ILO (2021) |
| Labour mobilityLabour Migration | Movement of workers between jobs, occupations, sectors, regions or countries. | ILO (2021) |
| Labour recruiterLabour Migration | A public or private individual or organisation involved in recruiting or placing workers in employment. | ILO (2019) |
| Fair recruitmentLabour Migration | Recruitment conducted transparently, lawfully and without practices that violate human or labour rights. | ILO (2019) |
| Ethical recruitmentLabour Migration | Recruitment practices that protect workers from deception, exploitation, discrimination and abusive recruitment costs. | ILO (2019) |
| Recruitment fees and related costsLabour Migration | Fees and expenses associated with recruitment and placement; ILO principles state that these should not be charged to workers. | ILO (2019) |
| Contract substitutionLabour Migration | Replacement of agreed employment terms with different, usually less favourable, terms after recruitment or arrival. | ILO (2019) |
| Employment contractLabour Migration | An agreement defining the rights, duties and employment conditions between an employer and employee. | ILO (2019) |
| Decent workLabour Migration | Productive employment characterised by respect for labour rights, adequate income, social protection and social dialogue. | ILO (2021) |
| Forced labourLabour Migration | Work or service demanded under threat of a penalty and not offered voluntarily, subject to exceptions in ILO Convention No. 29. | ILO (2019) |
| Debt bondageLabour Migration | A situation where labour or services are pledged against debt under exploitative conditions that prevent its fair discharge. | IOM (2019) |
| Skills recognitionLabour Migration | Formal assessment or acceptance of qualifications, knowledge or competencies, including skills obtained abroad. | ILO (2021) |
| Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)Labour Migration | Assessment and certification of skills and knowledge acquired through formal, non-formal or informal learning. | ILO (2021) |
| Skills portabilityLabour Migration | The ability to use or obtain recognition for qualifications and competencies across jobs, sectors or countries. | ILO (2021) |
| Skills mismatchLabour Migration | A difference between the skills possessed by workers and those required for available employment. | ILO (2021) |
| Brain drainLabour Migration | Loss of skilled workers or human capital from a country or region through migration. | IOM (2019) |
| Brain gainLabour Migration | Acquisition of human capital and skills through immigration or the return of skilled migrants. | IOM (2019) |
| Brain circulationLabour Migration | International movement and exchange of skilled workers and knowledge among countries. | IOM (2019) |
| Brain wasteLabour Migration | Underutilisation of migrants' education, qualifications or occupational skills in employment. | ILO (2021) |
| Bilateral Labour Migration Agreement (BLMA)Labour Migration | An agreement between two States outlining arrangements and responsibilities for labour migration. | ILO (2021) |
| Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA)Labour Migration | An agreement enabling participating authorities to recognise specified qualifications, credentials or professional standards. | ILO (2021) |
| Social protection portabilityLabour Migration | The ability to retain, access or transfer social security entitlements across jobs or national borders under applicable arrangements. | ILO (2021) |
| RemittancesLabour Migration | Money or resources transferred by migrants, commonly to individuals or households in countries of origin. | IOM (2019) |
| Social remittancesLabour Migration | Knowledge, ideas, social practices and behaviours transmitted between migrants and communities in their countries of origin. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration and developmentLabour Migration | The relationship between migration and economic, social and human development in countries of origin and destination. | IOM (2019) |
| Global Skills PartnershipLabour Migration | A cooperative skills-training and mobility model intended to benefit workers and countries of origin and destination. | ILO (2021) |
| Trafficking in Persons (TIP)Trafficking & Protection | Recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons through prohibited means such as force, fraud or coercion for exploitation. | UNODC, Trafficking Protocol |
| Child traffickingTrafficking & Protection | Recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of a child for exploitation; proof of coercion or deception is not required. | UNODC, Trafficking Protocol |
| Smuggling of migrantsTrafficking & Protection | Procuring illegal entry into a State of which a person is neither a national nor permanent resident, for financial or material benefit. | UNODC, Smuggling Protocol |
| Human exploitationTrafficking & Protection | Taking unfair advantage of individuals through abusive, coercive or exploitative practices for personal or economic gain. | UNODC |
| Sexual exploitationTrafficking & Protection | Abuse of vulnerability, power or trust for sexual purposes, including for financial, social or other gain. | UNODC |
| Labour exploitationTrafficking & Protection | Abusive employment practices violating workers' rights, potentially amounting to forced labour or trafficking in severe cases. | ILO (2019) |
| Victim of traffickingTrafficking & Protection | A person subjected to conduct meeting the applicable legal definition of trafficking in persons. | OSCE (2022) |
| Survivor of traffickingTrafficking & Protection | A person who has experienced trafficking, using terminology that emphasises dignity, agency and recovery. | OSCE (2022) |
| Migrant in a vulnerable situationTrafficking & Protection | A migrant facing heightened risks to their rights, safety or wellbeing because of personal circumstances or surrounding conditions. | IOM (2019) |
| Protection screeningTrafficking & Protection | Preliminary assessment of possible protection needs and risks to determine whether additional support is required. | OSCE (2022) |
| Victim identificationTrafficking & Protection | The process of recognising individuals who may have experienced trafficking or exploitation and assessing their protection needs. | OSCE (2022) |
| National Referral Mechanism (NRM)Trafficking & Protection | A national institutional framework for identifying, protecting and assisting trafficking victims and enabling access to services and justice. | OSCE (2022) |
| Referral pathwayTrafficking & Protection | A documented procedure linking people needing protection or assistance with appropriate service providers. | OSCE (2022) |
| Cross-border referral mechanismTrafficking & Protection | Arrangements enabling institutions in different countries to coordinate safe referrals and assistance. | OSCE (2022) |
| Case managementTrafficking & Protection | Coordinated assessment, planning, service referral, monitoring and follow-up to meet an individual's protection and assistance needs. | OSCE (2022) |
| Individual protection planTrafficking & Protection | A tailored plan documenting a person's risks, protection needs, available assistance and agreed support measures. | OSCE (2022) |
| Informed consentTrafficking & Protection | Voluntary agreement to an action after receiving understandable information about its purpose, implications and available alternatives. | OSCE (2022) |
| ConfidentialityTrafficking & Protection | Protection of sensitive personal information from unauthorised disclosure or access. | OSCE (2022) |
| Trauma-informed approachTrafficking & Protection | An approach to assistance that recognises the effects of trauma and seeks to avoid further harm or retraumatisation. | OSCE (2022) |
| Survivor-centred approachTrafficking & Protection | An approach placing the rights, safety, dignity, choices and wellbeing of survivors at the centre of assistance. | OSCE (2022) |
| Non-punishment principleTrafficking & Protection | The principle that trafficking victims should not be penalised for unlawful conduct they were compelled to commit as a direct consequence of trafficking, consistent with applicable law. | OSCE (2022) |
| Safe migrationTrafficking & Protection | Movement that minimises threats to people's rights, safety, dignity and wellbeing throughout migration. | IOM (2019) |
| Migrant protectionTrafficking & Protection | Legal, administrative and practical measures safeguarding the rights, safety and welfare of migrants. | IOM (2019) |
| Access to justiceTrafficking & Protection | The ability to seek and obtain fair remedies through effective justice and dispute-resolution mechanisms. | OSCE (2022) |
| Legal assistanceTrafficking & Protection | Legal information, advice, representation or other services that support individuals in exercising their rights. | OSCE (2022) |
| Grievance redress mechanismTrafficking & Protection | An accessible process through which complaints can be submitted, examined and addressed with appropriate responses or remedies. | OSCE (2022) |
| ReturnReturn & Reintegration | Movement of a person back to a country or place of origin, former habitual residence or another receiving country. | IOM (2019) |
| ReturneeReturn & Reintegration | A person who has returned after a period of migration or displacement. | IOM (2019) |
| Voluntary returnReturn & Reintegration | Return undertaken through an informed decision freely made by the individual, without coercion. | IOM (2019) |
| Forced returnReturn & Reintegration | Return carried out against a person's will, generally through administrative or judicial measures. | IOM (2019) |
| Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR)Return & Reintegration | Administrative, logistical, financial and reintegration support for eligible migrants who choose to return voluntarily. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| ReadmissionReturn & Reintegration | Acceptance by a State of a person returned from another State under applicable rules or arrangements. | IOM (2019) |
| Readmission agreementReturn & Reintegration | An arrangement between States establishing procedures and obligations for returning and accepting specified persons. | IOM (2019) |
| DeportationReturn & Reintegration | State-enforced removal of a non-national under domestic immigration law, subject to applicable safeguards. | IOM (2019) |
| ExpulsionReturn & Reintegration | A formal State act requiring a non-national to leave its territory. | IOM (2019) |
| RemovalReturn & Reintegration | Implementation of a decision to take a non-national out of a country's territory. | IOM (2019) |
| Immigration detentionReturn & Reintegration | Deprivation of liberty for immigration-related administrative purposes, subject to applicable legal and human rights protections. | IOM (2019) |
| ReintegrationReturn & Reintegration | The process of re-establishing economic, social and psychosocial participation and wellbeing after return. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| Sustainable reintegrationReturn & Reintegration | A condition where returnees achieve economic self-sufficiency, social stability and psychosocial wellbeing enabling them to cope with factors driving renewed migration. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| Post-return assistanceReturn & Reintegration | Support provided after return, potentially including documentation, livelihoods, counselling, accommodation or service referrals. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| Economic reintegrationReturn & Reintegration | Re-establishment of livelihoods, employment, income or productive economic activities following return. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| Social reintegrationReturn & Reintegration | Reconnection with social relationships, institutions, public services and community participation after return. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| Psychosocial reintegrationReturn & Reintegration | Recovery or strengthening of psychological wellbeing, identity, social connections and adjustment following return. | IOM (2019), Reintegration Handbook |
| Return monitoringReturn & Reintegration | Collection and assessment of information on return processes, protection risks and reintegration outcomes. | IOM (2019), Monitoring Handbook |
| Migration governanceMigration Governance | The laws, policies, institutions, practices and cooperation arrangements through which migration is regulated and migrants' rights are protected. | IOM (2019); ICMPD |
| Migration managementMigration Governance | Administrative and operational activities undertaken to manage entry, stay, employment, movement and return. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration policyMigration Governance | Government objectives, principles and measures concerning migration, migrants and the consequences of population movement. | IOM (2019) |
| Rights-based migration governanceMigration Governance | Migration governance that places human rights and applicable refugee and labour standards at the centre of policies and practices. | ICMPD |
| Whole-of-government approachMigration Governance | Coordination among government ministries, departments and agencies involved in migration-related responsibilities. | UN, Global Compact for Migration |
| Whole-of-society approachMigration Governance | Participation by governments, civil society, migrants, communities, employers and other stakeholders in migration governance. | UN, Global Compact for Migration |
| Bilateral migration cooperationMigration Governance | Cooperation between two States on migration policy, operational arrangements, protection or migration management. | IOM (2019) |
| Regional migration dialogueMigration Governance | Structured discussions among countries and stakeholders to exchange knowledge and develop common approaches to migration challenges. | ICMPD |
| Integrated Border Management (IBM)Migration Governance | Coordinated border governance through cooperation among relevant national authorities and neighbouring countries, balancing legitimate movement and security. | ICMPD, IBM Guidelines |
| Border controlMigration Governance | Checks and surveillance measures used by States to regulate and monitor international border crossings. | IOM (2019) |
| Border managementMigration Governance | Laws, institutions, procedures and activities governing cross-border movement of people and goods. | ICMPD |
| VisaMigration Governance | An authorisation or endorsement relating to entry, transit or stay in a country, subject to the issuing State's rules. | IOM (2019) |
| Residence permitMigration Governance | Official authorisation allowing a foreign national to reside in a country under specified conditions. | IOM (2019) |
| Work permitMigration Governance | Official authorisation allowing a foreign national to undertake employment under applicable conditions. | IOM (2019) |
| RegularisationMigration Governance | A process through which a State allows a person in an irregular migration situation to obtain lawful status. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration pathwayMigration Governance | A legal or administrative route through which people may enter, reside, work, study or settle in another country. | IOM (2019) |
| Humanitarian visaMigration Governance | A visa or entry authorisation granted for humanitarian or protection-related reasons under national rules. | IOM (2019) |
| Safe, orderly and regular migrationMigration Governance | A policy objective of facilitating migration that respects human rights, follows applicable rules and reduces avoidable risks. | United Nations (2018) |
| Global Compact for Migration (GCM)Migration Governance | A non-legally binding international cooperation framework adopted in 2018 containing 23 objectives concerning safe, orderly and regular migration. | United Nations (2018) |
| Global Compact on Refugees (GCR)Migration Governance | An international cooperation framework intended to improve responsibility-sharing, support refugee-hosting countries and strengthen refugee solutions. | UNHCR (2018) |
| Migration diplomacyMigration Governance | The use of diplomatic engagement and negotiation to address migration priorities, international cooperation and related disputes. | ICMPD |
| Policy coherenceMigration Governance | Alignment of migration policy with connected sectors such as employment, education, development, human rights and climate policy. | ILO (2021) |
| Environmental migrationClimate & Environmental Migration | Movement influenced by sudden or gradual changes in environmental conditions that adversely affect people's lives or livelihoods. | IOM (2014), MECLEP Glossary |
| Climate-related migrationClimate & Environmental Migration | Movement influenced directly or indirectly by climate variability or climate change, often in combination with economic and social factors. | IOM (2014) |
| Climate mobilityClimate & Environmental Migration | A broad term encompassing migration, displacement and planned relocation associated with climate-related conditions. | IOM (2014) |
| Disaster displacementClimate & Environmental Migration | Movement forced by a disaster or undertaken to escape an immediate or foreseeable disaster-related hazard. | IOM (2019) |
| Slow-onset environmental changeClimate & Environmental Migration | Gradual environmental processes such as desertification, drought, salinisation and sea-level rise that may influence mobility. | IOM (2014) |
| Sudden-onset disasterClimate & Environmental Migration | A disaster arising from a rapidly developing hazardous event, such as flooding, a cyclone or an earthquake. | IOM (2014) |
| Planned relocationClimate & Environmental Migration | An organised process of moving individuals or communities away from areas exposed to serious risks, often with government support. | IOM (2014) |
| Climate adaptationClimate & Environmental Migration | Adjustments to actual or expected climate conditions to reduce harm or take advantage of beneficial opportunities. | IOM (2014) |
| Migration as adaptationClimate & Environmental Migration | Migration undertaken in ways that help individuals or households reduce climate-related risks or strengthen livelihoods. | IOM (2014) |
| MaladaptationClimate & Environmental Migration | Actions intended to address climate risks that inadvertently increase vulnerability or produce adverse outcomes. | IOM (2014) |
| ResilienceClimate & Environmental Migration | The capacity of individuals, communities or systems to anticipate, withstand, recover from and adapt to shocks and stresses. | IOM (2014) |
| Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)Climate & Environmental Migration | Policies and actions aimed at preventing new disaster risks and reducing existing risks and vulnerabilities. | IOM (2014) |
| Environmental degradationClimate & Environmental Migration | Deterioration of environmental conditions, ecosystems or natural resources that may affect livelihoods and wellbeing. | IOM (2014) |
| Trapped populationsClimate & Environmental Migration | People who may wish or need to move away from unsafe conditions but lack the means or ability to do so. | IOM (2014) |
| Involuntary immobilityClimate & Environmental Migration | A situation in which individuals cannot move despite wishing or needing to migrate. | IOM (2014) |
| Climate-related displacement riskClimate & Environmental Migration | The likelihood and potential consequences of displacement arising from climate-related hazards and vulnerability. | IOM (2014) |
| Loss and damageClimate & Environmental Migration | Economic and non-economic harm resulting from climate change that may occur despite mitigation and adaptation efforts. | IOM (2014), related terminology |
| Migration stockMigration Data & Statistics | The number of people meeting a specified migrant-population definition at a particular point in time. | UNSD (2025) |
| Migration flowMigration Data & Statistics | The number of migration movements or migrants entering or leaving an area during a defined period, depending on the statistical methodology. | UNSD (2025) |
| Immigration flowMigration Data & Statistics | The number of people entering a country to establish residence during a defined period. | UNSD (2025) |
| Emigration flowMigration Data & Statistics | The number of people leaving a country to establish residence elsewhere during a defined period. | UNSD (2025) |
| Net migrationMigration Data & Statistics | The difference between immigration and emigration during a specified period. | UNSD (2025) |
| Net migration rateMigration Data & Statistics | Net migration expressed relative to the population, commonly per 1,000 inhabitants. | UNSD (2025) |
| Foreign-born populationMigration Data & Statistics | Residents whose country of birth differs from their present country of residence. | UNSD (2025) |
| Foreign-citizen populationMigration Data & Statistics | Residents who do not possess the citizenship of their country of residence. | UNSD (2025) |
| Country of birthMigration Data & Statistics | The country where a person was born, used as an attribute in migration statistics. | UNSD (2025) |
| Country of citizenshipMigration Data & Statistics | The State or States of which a person is legally recognised as a national. | UNSD (2025) |
| Usual residenceMigration Data & Statistics | The place where a person normally lives and spends their daily period of rest, subject to applicable statistical criteria. | UNSD (2025) |
| Long-term international migrantMigration Data & Statistics | A person changing their country of usual residence for a period meeting the long-term threshold under the statistical framework applied. | UNSD (2025) |
| Short-term international migrantMigration Data & Statistics | A person changing their country of usual residence for a shorter qualifying period under an identified statistical framework. | UNSD (2025) |
| Temporary international mobilityMigration Data & Statistics | Cross-border movement that does not qualify as a change of country of usual residence under the applicable statistical criteria. | UNSD (2025) |
| Migrant return flowMigration Data & Statistics | The number of migrants returning to a country or place of origin or former residence during a defined period. | IOM (2019) |
| Refugee populationMigration Data & Statistics | People classified as refugees within the applicable statistical reporting framework at a particular point in time. | UNHCR Glossary |
| Asylum applicationsMigration Data & Statistics | Requests for international protection lodged with competent authorities during a specified reporting period. | UNHCR Glossary |
| IDP stockMigration Data & Statistics | The number of people living in internal displacement at a specified point in time. | IOM DTM |
| New displacementsMigration Data & Statistics | Displacement movements occurring during a reporting period; a person may experience more than one movement. | IOM DTM |
| Remittance inflowsMigration Data & Statistics | Recorded international money transfers received under the statistical definition used for remittances. | IOM (2019) |
| Remittance outflowsMigration Data & Statistics | Recorded international money transfers sent abroad under the relevant remittance definition. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration intentionsMigration Data & Statistics | Self-reported plans, expectations or preferences concerning possible future migration. | IOM (2019) |
| Migration data disaggregationMigration Data & Statistics | Breakdown of migration data by characteristics such as sex, age, citizenship, migration category or location. | UNSD (2025) |
| Administrative migration dataMigration Data & Statistics | Information generated through government administrative systems, including visa, permit, registration and border records. | UNSD (2025) |
| Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM)Migration Data & Statistics | IOM's system for collecting and analysing data on population mobility, displacement, vulnerabilities and needs. | IOM DTM |
| Flow monitoringMigration Data & Statistics | Collection of information about mobility movements, characteristics and trends at selected transit points or border crossings. | IOM DTM |
| Migration data triangulationMigration Data & Statistics | Comparison or combination of data from multiple sources to assess consistency and strengthen migration analysis. | UNSD (2025), Data Integration Guidance |
| Overseas PakistaniPakistan-Specific | A Pakistani citizen residing or working outside Pakistan, with precise eligibility depending on the applicable law or programme. | OPF, Government of Pakistan |
| Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (BEOE)Pakistan-Specific | A federal institution responsible for overseas employment administration, regulation of overseas employment promoters and facilitation of emigrants. | BEOE, Government of Pakistan |
| Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP)Pakistan-Specific | A licensed recruitment intermediary authorised to arrange overseas employment under Pakistan's emigration framework. | Emigration Rules, 1979 (updated 2023) |
| Protector of EmigrantsPakistan-Specific | The designated authority or office responsible for specified administrative and protective processes relating to Pakistanis emigrating for employment. | Emigration Rules, 1979 (updated 2023) |
| Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF)Pakistan-Specific | A public-sector organisation supporting the welfare of overseas Pakistanis and their families and contributing to their rehabilitation upon return. | OPF, Government of Pakistan |
| Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)Pakistan-Specific | A federal law-enforcement agency with responsibilities covering immigration-related offences, human trafficking and migrant smuggling. | FIA, Government of Pakistan |
| Anti-Human Trafficking and Smuggling Wing (AHS)Pakistan-Specific | A specialised FIA wing involved in preventing, investigating and coordinating responses to human trafficking and migrant smuggling. | FIA, AHS Wing |
| Anti-Human Trafficking Circle (AHTC)Pakistan-Specific | An FIA operational unit responsible for investigating trafficking, migrant-smuggling cases and related offences. | FIA, AHS Wing |
| National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA)Pakistan-Specific | Pakistan's national identity and registration authority, responsible for identity management and designated documentation services. | NADRA, Government of Pakistan |
| Proof of Registration (PoR) CardPakistan-Specific | A government-issued identity document used for registered Afghan refugees in Pakistan, issued by NADRA with UNHCR support. | UNHCR Pakistan (2021) |
| Afghan Citizen Card (ACC)Pakistan-Specific | An identity-documentation card issued to certain Afghan nationals in Pakistan under a government registration exercise, distinct from PoR registration. | UNHCR Pakistan, Documentation Guidance |
| Documentation Renewal and Information Verification Exercise (DRIVE)Pakistan-Specific | A government-led exercise supported by UNHCR to verify and update information about registered Afghan refugees and issue renewed PoR documentation. | UNHCR Pakistan (2021) |
| Undocumented Afghan nationalPakistan-Specific | An Afghan national in Pakistan lacking recognised documentation for entry or stay under applicable requirements; this description does not determine international protection needs. | UNHCR Pakistan |
| Afghan returneePakistan-Specific | An Afghan national returning to Afghanistan after residing or staying abroad, including in Pakistan. | IOM (2019) |
| Overseas employment registrationPakistan-Specific | Administrative procedures required for eligible Pakistani nationals proceeding abroad for employment under Pakistan's emigration framework. | BEOE, Government of Pakistan |
REFERENCE LIBRARY
Source labels follow the supplied glossary. The links below open institutional glossaries, guidance and relevant resource portals; they are not individual term-by-term citation checks. Consult the original publication and applicable law when precise legal or policy wording matters.
The definitions are concise paraphrases from the user-supplied glossary and are reproduced without substantive edits. Some concepts have context-dependent legal meanings, and national legislation or institutional frameworks may apply. This resource supports general understanding and does not replace authoritative legal definitions.
INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION GOVERNANCE
Explore international treaties, compacts, regional dialogues and policy standards shaping migration, with a Pakistan-specific view of legal applicability and source references.
International frameworks & instruments
Binding instruments for Pakistan
Processes listing Pakistan as a participant
Migration governance themes
Counts reflect the 105-item source inventory dated 15 October 2026; they are not a new legal assessment.
PAKISTAN MIGRATION GOVERNANCE · MOBILITY CONNECTIONS
Understand how people move and where migration connects Pakistan to the world. Explore official pathways, destination information, data-led corridor profiles, safe-migration guidance and original documents.
OVERSEAS WORKER REGISTRATIONS · 2025
GUIDE COVERAGE
01 / UNDERSTAND HOW PEOPLE MOVE
A practical guide to pathways for employment, education, family, protection, business, return and movement within Pakistan. Select a pathway for an overview, essential checks and trusted starting points.
PATHWAY GUIDE
Entry, admission and employment eligibility are determined by the relevant authorities. This guide does not offer immigration advice or guarantee a visa or job.
02 / DESTINATIONS & CORRIDOR PATTERNS
Select a destination to explore Pakistan's international mobility connections. The map shows selected relationships—not approved travel routes or corridor volumes. Official immigration rules vary by country and pathway.
Selected destinations, by registered overseas employment. This is an annual registration flow, not the number of Pakistanis resident abroad.
03 / COMPARE DESTINATIONS
Compare official starting points, available employment-registration data and areas requiring verification. This comparison does not assess personal visa eligibility.
| Comparison point | Saudi Arabia | United Arab Emirates |
|---|
Any 2025 totals are BEOE registered worker flows, not total diaspora populations. Visa rules and fees are deliberately not estimated.
04 / VISUAL GUIDE
A simple sequence for identifying an appropriate route and reducing unnecessary risks. Details differ by destination, status and purpose.
Check the official route and eligibility requirements.
Confirm recruiters, employers, admissions and documents.
Review contracts, costs, rights and complaint options.
Follow required permissions, registrations and preparations.
Save emergency, consular and service contacts.
05 / RIGHTS & PROTECTION
Migration pathways can involve legal, financial and protection risks. Use verified official channels and seek qualified help when circumstances are complex or unsafe.
Check the BEOE licensing status of overseas employment promoters. Be cautious of unofficial intermediaries or guaranteed-visa claims.
ILO guidance supports transparent contracts and the principle that workers should not bear recruitment fees. Check the applicable national rules as well.
Keep your identity documents secure and save official consular, labour complaint and protection-service contacts.
06 / DOCUMENTS, DATA & OFFICIAL RESOURCES
Original documents and trusted information published by Pakistan's institutions and international organisations. Use the search and resource-type filter to find relevant materials.
Ministry of Finance · 2026
Open original document ↗Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment
Open original document ↗International Labour Organization · 2019
Open original document ↗Overseas employment registrations are annual administrative flows (BEOE). UN DESA migrant stock is the number of international migrants resident in a country at a given date. Neither describes all forms of movement, and the two should not be added.
Last content review: 15 October 2026. Country profiles are reference starting points, not legal or consular advice. Confirm current eligibility and official procedures with the relevant authority before applying or travelling. The map is illustrative and does not indicate official borders or legal routes.
