Over 21 000 Pakistanis Imprisoned Abroad in 12 Countries – 2025 Report. More than 21,000 Pakistanis are currently imprisoned abroad, raising serious questions about legal support, immigration violations, and trial delays. In this detailed 2025 report, we break down the countries, charges, and challenges faced by Pakistanis detained overseas, using verified government data and SEO-optimized insights.
Why Over 21,000 Pakistanis Are Imprisoned Overseas in 2025
According to the latest written statement submitted by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to the National Assembly, 21,600+ Pakistani nationals are currently detained in jails across 12 major countries. These cases range from immigration violations to drug trafficking, fraud, and border-related offences.
Pakistan’s growing diaspora means millions travel abroad for work, education, and better opportunities—but not all journeys go as planned. Legal misunderstandings, strict immigration laws, and limited access to legal aid often lead to imprisonment.
Country-Wise Breakdown of Pakistani Prisoners (Updated 2025)
The table below summarizes the number of Pakistanis detained abroad and the primary nature of charges (where available).
Pakistani Prisoners Abroad: Data & Charges
| Country | No. of Pakistani Prisoners | Primary Charges / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | 10,745 | Illegal border crossing, drug-related cases, trials ongoing |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 5,297 | Not officially disclosed |
| India | 738 | No charge details shared by Indian authorities |
| China | 652 | Drug trafficking, fake currency, fraud, immigration violations |
| Qatar | 599 | Labour disputes, immigration issues |
| Oman | 578 | Residency & visa violations |
| Malaysia | 444 | Immigration & drug-related cases |
| Italy | 353 | Human smuggling & document fraud (common trends) |
| Bahrain | 218 | Work permit violations & minor legal disputes |
| Turkiye | 190 | Border offences & immigration issues |
| Afghanistan | 91 | Border disputes, travel documentation issues |
| United States | 141 | Various legal cases including immigration & financial violations |
Convicted vs Under-Trial Pakistanis Abroad
- 13,078 Pakistanis are still under trial in foreign courts.
- 8,569 Pakistanis have already been convicted and are serving their sentences.
This indicates that nearly 60% are still awaiting final judgment—a major concern for families back home.
Major Reasons Behind Pakistani Arrests Overseas
While each country has its own legal system, some common patterns appear across global cases.
1. Immigration & Visa Violations
This is the most frequent reason behind Pakistani detentions. In countries with strict labour and residency rules (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar), even minor paperwork issues can lead to jail time or trial.
2. Drug-Related Offences
A significant number of cases in Saudi Arabia, China, Malaysia, and UAE are linked to drug smuggling networks that often exploit uneducated labourers traveling abroad.
3. Human Trafficking & Document Fraud
Europe and Turkiye see rising cases involving:
- Fake passports
- Visa fraud
- Human smuggling attempts via sea routes
4. Border-Crossing Violations
Countries like India, Afghanistan, and Saudi Arabia often detain individuals crossing borders without proper documentation.
5. Lack of Legal Awareness
Many overseas Pakistanis are unaware of local laws, resulting in unintentional offences such as:
- Overstaying visas
- Working without a valid permit
- Fines accumulated due to ignorance
- Signing documents they cannot read
Pakistanis in Saudi Arabia – The Highest Number of Detainees
Saudi Arabia alone holds 10,745 Pakistanis, the largest figure among all countries. Several factors contribute to this:
- The huge Pakistani workforce (approx. 2.5 million)
- Strict Saudi immigration laws
- Crackdowns on illegal border movements
- Noorabad, Riyadh, and Dammam detention centres housing drug-related cases
Many detainees are still on trial, while others are serving long-term sentences.
Pakistanis in India – 738 Detainees Without Charge Details
The Foreign Minister confirmed that Indian authorities have not provided detailed charges for the 738 detained Pakistanis. Common types of cases historically involve:
- Accidental border crossing
- Fishermen straying into Indian waters
- Security-related detentions
Lack of transparency remains a significant diplomatic challenge.
China’s 652 Pakistani Detainees Facing Economic & Immigration Crimes
China has detained Pakistanis for offences such as:
- Drug trafficking
- Fake currency usage
- Financial fraud
- Visa violations
Most are still undergoing trial, reflecting China’s strict judicial process.
Government Efforts to Support Pakistanis Abroad
The Government of Pakistan has taken several steps to assist citizens in foreign jails.
1. Legal & Consular Support
Pakistani embassies now maintain:
- Prisoner welfare desks
- Emergency legal assistance coordination
- Trial monitoring systems
2. Repatriation Efforts
Pakistan is pushing for bilateral agreements to allow prisoners to serve sentences in Pakistan instead of abroad.
3. Financial Aid Mechanisms
Zakat-based or welfare funds are available in some missions for prisoners who cannot afford legal help.
How Families Can Seek Help for Overseas Pakistani Prisoners
The following channels are available for support:
- Foreign Ministry helpline
- Pakistani embassies in relevant countries
- Overseas Pakistani Foundation (OPF)
- Community welfare attachés
Documents usually required include:
- CNIC copy
- Passport details
- FIR or case number
- Jail location
FAQs
How many Pakistanis are currently in foreign jails?
More than 21,600 Pakistanis are imprisoned in 12 countries as of the latest 2025 report.
Which country has the highest number of Pakistani prisoners?
Saudi Arabia, with 10,745 detainees.
What are the common charges against Pakistanis abroad?
Immigration violations, drug offences, fraud, and border crossings are the most common.
How many Pakistanis are under trial abroad?
Approximately 13,078 Pakistanis are awaiting trial in foreign courts.
How can families contact authorities for prisoner updates?
Through Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, local embassies, or the Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF).
Conclusion
With over 21,000 Pakistanis imprisoned abroad, the issue demands urgent legal, diplomatic, and social intervention. Understanding the causes, country-wise data, and available support systems can help families and policymakers take informed action.
