Safety first! Before deciding to migrate, find out as much as you can about the place where you will work or stay, the nature of your employment, the living and working conditions there and the cultural and environmental situation. Talk to your family and friends and seek help from MRC.
Migrate legally
Travelling without visa and other legal documents is a bad decision. Migrate only if you have all the documents you need for this travel, including your visa and work permit. Irregular migration puts you under many risks, such as exploitation or work without pay.
If you are offered or promised a job abroad, know the recruiter
Do not trust everyone. Find out as much as you can about the recruitment agency that is assisting you in finding work abroad. What is their reputation? Do they have a license for their work? Are they asking you to lie about your age or to work without a contract? Are they offering tourist visas instead of work permits?
Sign a contract before you accept an employment offer
Contracts are important! Ask to have a contract signed with the recruitment agency or employer. Without a contract, your work is not secure. Understand the details of your contract. It should be written in a language that is clear to you and signed by you and your employer.
Protect your Documents
Keep your personal documents safe. Make photocopies of your passport, visa, work contract, etc. Keep the original copies in a safe place and keep photocopies with yourself and your family. Do not allow your employer or recruitment agency to keep your personal documents even if they demand for it.
In Emergencies
Be prepared. Always carry with you a list of important telephone numbers including local police, ambulance, fire department, your friends and family, the Pakistani embassy or consulate, NGOs, trade union, migrants’ associations and the Migrant Resource Centres in Islamabad and Lahore.
Keep contact with other people
Do not be alone. Keep regular contact with your friends and family in Pakistan. Let them know that you are well and safe. Befriend and interact with other migrants in your place of work. Get regular feedback from your employer and colleagues. This way, you can help and support one another.
Protect yourself
If you have problems, talk with a trusted person. Seek help from NGOs or authorities for advice and protection, such as the Pakistani Embassy or Consulate. Use your income wisely. Maintain your remittance to your family but also save something for yourself. Use only the legitimate remittance companies in sending your money back in Pakistan.
All of our services are free! Rest assured about privacy because our counselling sessions are strictly confidential and private.
Visit us at Islamabad and Lahore. We are at your service!
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