Islamabad, 24 Apr,2025: A parliamentary committee has endorsed an important legislative change that will allow Overseas Pakistanis who previously lost their Pakistani nationality to reclaim it under new provisions.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior, under the leadership of Khurram Nawaz, has given its approval to the Citizenship Amendment Bill.
This new law seeks to address a long-standing concern faced by many Pakistanis living abroad particularly those who had to surrender their citizenship after acquiring nationality in countries that do not recognise Dual Citizenship arrangements with Pakistan.
READ MORE: PM Shehbaz Announces Major Incentives for Overseas Pakistanis
Officials from the Ministry of Law informed the committee that the proposed amendment aims to reverse the loss of Pakistani nationality in such cases, allowing affected individuals to re-establish their legal ties with the country.
The Director General of Immigration and Passports briefed the committee that Pakistan has recently expanded its network of Dual Citizenship agreements, signing pacts with an additional 22 nations.
Citizens of these countries will no longer be compelled to give up their Pakistani identity when obtaining foreign nationality.
Committee Chair Khurram Nawaz hailed the development as a progressive step, emphasising that Overseas Pakistanis should not be forced to make a choice between their country of origin and their new homes abroad.
He noted that the move would help strengthen national bonds with millions of Pakistanis living in the diaspora.
READ MORE: Prime Minister Announces Incentives to Overseas Pakistanis
Among those who expressed support was PTI member Zartaj Gul Wazir, who stressed the need for institutional reforms within the passport system.
She advocated for the establishment of an autonomous passport authority, arguing that the passport department generates significant revenue and deserves operational independence similar to that of NADRA.
Gul Wazir also commended the current leadership of the passport directorate for its efficiency, and urged the government to ensure greater transparency and improved service standards for citizens both at home and abroad.
The bill now moves forward to the next legislative stage and, if passed, could pave the way for thousands of Overseas Pakistanis to reinstate their Pakistani nationality without bureaucratic hurdles.
This initiative is expected to enhance Pakistan’s engagement with its global diaspora, fostering stronger economic and cultural connections in an increasingly interconnected world.
