Italy’s Work Visa Initiative: A Step Towards Strengthening Pakistan-Italy Relations
In a significant move to bolster bilateral ties, Italy has announced it will issue 10,500 work visas for skilled Pakistani workers. This announcement came from the Italian Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, following a meeting with his Pakistani counterpart, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, in Rome. The initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at promoting legal migration and enhancing cooperation between the two nations.
During their discussions, Piantedosi and Naqvi highlighted the importance of joint efforts to combat pressing issues like drug trafficking, human smuggling, and terrorism. Both ministers praised the progress made in curbing illegal immigration and human trafficking, signaling a strong commitment to these challenges.
One notable aspect of this initiative is the exemption of holders of Pakistani diplomatic passports from Italy’s visa requirements. This policy not only eases travel for diplomatic personnel but also indicates a growing trust between Italy and Pakistan.
Naqvi took the opportunity to showcase Pakistan’s successful measures against illegal immigration, pointing to significant reductions thanks to improved surveillance at airports and maritime borders. He stressed that these efforts have played a crucial role in enhancing safety and security for both countries.
This isn’t just a one-off initiative. It comes on the heels of other positive developments, such as Spain’s announcement that eligible overseas Pakistanis can now obtain one-year resident cards. Pakistan’s ambassador to Spain, Dr. Zahoor Ahmed, clarified that the program is not designed for those seeking political asylum, underscoring the importance of character certificates and required documentation in the application process.
The issuance of work visas and resident cards reflects a growing acceptance of Pakistani skill sets in the international labor market. After living and working abroad for seven to eight years, individuals on the resident card pathway will even have the opportunity to apply for permanent residency and citizenship.
With simplified verification processes and increased governmental support for applicants, both Italy and Spain are paving the way for a more integrated global workforce. For those exploring opportunities abroad, this news is not just a headline—it’s a genuine chance to start anew in a foreign land.
If you’re looking to stay updated on international migration trends or legal pathways for skilled workers, consider engaging more deeply with organizations like Pro21st. Building connections can open doors you didn’t even know were there!
