21,600 Pakistanis in Foreign Jails. More than 21,600 Pakistanis are currently jailed abroad, according to a written statement presented by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in the National Assembly. This latest data highlights the growing number of overseas prisoners facing serious legal challenges, ranging from immigration violations to drug-related crimes.
This detailed report explains where Pakistanis are imprisoned, the nature of their charges, and how many are awaiting trial as of December 2025.
Why Are So Many Pakistanis Imprisoned Abroad?
The foreign minister revealed that Pakistanis face multiple charges in different countries. These include:
- Illegal immigration / border crossing
- Drug trafficking cases
- Financial fraud and fake currency
- Visa violations
- General criminal offenses
A large portion of these individuals are still under investigation or awaiting trial, while thousands have already been convicted.
Country-Wise Breakdown of Pakistanis in Foreign Jails (2025)
Below is a complete overview of Pakistanis imprisoned in 12 countries, along with details shared in the parliament.
Saudi Arabia – Highest Number of Pakistani Prisoners
Saudi Arabia tops the list with 10,745 Pakistani detainees.
Most common charges include:
- Illegal border entry
- Drug-related cases
- Visa issues and residency violations
Many prisoners are serving their sentences, while others are waiting for court hearings.
India – 738 Pakistanis Held Without Charge Details
India currently holds 738 Pakistanis, but Indian authorities have not provided specific charges to Pakistan.
Many of these detainees are believed to be fishermen, border-crossing cases, and political arrests.
United Arab Emirates – 5,297 Pakistanis in Jail
The UAE is the second-largest Gulf country holding Pakistani prisoners.
However, the UAE has not shared details regarding the nature of offenses for the 5,297 detainees.
China – 652 Pakistanis Facing Serious Trials
China is holding 652 Pakistani nationals, mostly in cases related to:
- Drug trafficking
- Fake currency
- Visa and immigration violations
- Fraud cases
Thousands of these individuals are still in court proceedings.
Qatar – 599 Pakistani Detainees
Qatar has 599 Pakistanis imprisoned, most of them facing:
- Residency offenses
- Financial disputes
- Workplace-related cases
Oman – 578 Pakistanis Behind Bars
Oman reported 578 Pakistani prisoners, mainly charged with:
- Illegal border entry
- Drug-related offenses
- Work and visa violations
Malaysia – 444 Pakistanis in Jail
Malaysia holds 444 Pakistani citizens, mostly due to:
- Immigration offenses
- Fraud
- Drug-related crimes
Italy – 353 Pakistani Nationals Detained
Italy has reported 353 Pakistani detainees, primarily linked with:
- Illegal migration attempts
- Human-smuggling networks
- Documentation fraud
Bahrain – 218 Pakistanis Imprisoned
Bahrain hosts 218 Pakistani prisoners, with most cases falling under:
- Labour disputes
- Visa violations
- Criminal offenses
Turkey – 190 Pakistanis in Detention
Turkey recorded 190 Pakistani detainees, mostly due to:
- Illegal border movement toward Europe
- Fake documentation
- Immigration-related crimes
Afghanistan – 91 Pakistanis Detained
Afghanistan currently holds 91 Pakistani nationals, mostly in:
- Border-crossing cases
- Local criminal allegations
- Investigation-based detentions
Total Convicted vs. Under-Trial Prisoners
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar provided a clear breakdown:
| Category | Number of Pakistanis |
|---|---|
| Under Trial Abroad | 13,078 |
| Convicted in Foreign Courts | 8,569 |
| Total Imprisoned | 21,647+ |
This indicates that more than half of the detained Pakistanis are still awaiting verdicts.
Why This Data Matters
This updated information is crucial for several reasons:
Consular Support
Pakistan’s embassies can use this data to offer legal and humanitarian support.
Repatriation Efforts
It helps the government negotiate prisoner transfers and fast-track deportations.
Policy Improvements
The data highlights the need for stronger awareness about legal travel, visa rules, and immigration scams.
Challenges Faced by Pakistanis in Foreign Jails
Pakistani prisoners abroad often suffer from:
- Language barriers
- Lack of legal representation
- Delayed trials
- Poor prison conditions
- Financial and family hardships
Human rights groups have repeatedly called for improved diplomatic efforts and faster legal assistance.
Government Response
The Foreign Office has assured Parliament that:
- Pakistani missions are monitoring cases closely
- Legal and consular help is being provided
- Efforts are underway to negotiate prisoner transfers and early deportations
The minister also emphasized improving awareness to prevent illegal migration and reduce arrest rates abroad.
Conclusion
Thousands of Pakistanis are facing legal challenges in jails around the world, with many still awaiting trial. This situation highlights the urgent need for stronger awareness of immigration laws, safer travel practices, and more active diplomatic support. The government’s updated data will play an important role in shaping policies to protect Pakistani citizens abroad and reduce future arrests.
