Your documents checklist (to be obtained after your arrival in the destination country)

Evidence of lawful entry and status - arrival/departure record in your passport

When entering the destination country, the border or immigration officer examines your passport and visa and then issues either a passport admission stamp or a small card. This indicates how long you are allowed to stay in the destination country and prove that you have arrived in the country legally. Be aware of the fact that if you cannot provide evidence that you lawfully entered the destination country, the local authorities will presume you don’t have a legal entry. In some cases, this can potentially put you in removal proceedings.

Resident Card/stamp

The resident card or the stamp for resident workers proves that foreign nationals have been approved for temporary residency in the destination country. The resident card/stamp holders can legally live and work in the destination country as long as their visa is valid. 

What is a work permit? Do you need one? Where can you get it?

A work permit is an authorisation to work in the country of destination. Applications for work permits are usually submitted together with the visa application, which is done in Pakistan.

Generally, the recruiter is responsible for applying for your work permit. Check with the recruiter how much is the cost and whether it is you or the employer/recruiter who will pay for it. The MRC or the government will be able to help you. Below are copies of the work permit/residence permit for employment.

The duration of your residence permits is linked to your employment contract.

The destination country’s authorities issues residence permits that are usually linked to the duration of the employment contract. Thus, the residence permit will be valid for the maximum length of the employment contract but can be extended with the renewal of the employment contract and the work visa.

Health insurance (if not requested before leaving Pakistan)

The health insurance plans are intended to cover unexpected medical costs as a result of sudden accidents, mishaps, or sickness. To read more about it, access the MRC webpage https://www.mrc.org.pk/en/

Registration number (alien registration number for social security)

In some countries, the local authorities will issue an identification numbers. Every immigrant gets a unique number, to help you track your work history, to relate with a bank, or to pay your taxes.

Local driver’s licence

In most of the cases, you must exchange your driving licence within 6 months of moving. Read country specific leaflet published by the MRCs for additional information. These are available for download on the MRC website and social media accounts.