Eligible overseas Pakistanis will initially be issued one-year resident cards in Spain, following a high-level meeting on the Spanish resident card scheme for overseas Pakistanis, according to an official statement released on Sunday.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Salik Hussain chaired the session. Officials from the Ministry of Interior reaffirmed their commitment to providing legal protection and facilities to Pakistanis living abroad, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured full support for the Spanish resident card process.
Pakistan’s ambassador to Spain, Dr Zahoor Ahmed, provided a detailed briefing on the scheme. He clarified that the policy is not intended for individuals seeking political asylum. The briefing also emphasised that applicants must submit a character certificate and other required documents, the statement added.
According to officials, eligible individuals will initially be issued a resident card valid for one year. After completing seven to eight years, a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship will be available. The verification process for documents will be expedited to ensure applicants do not face difficulties.
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It was decided that multiple character certificates will not be accepted; a single national character certificate will be issued by the National Police Bureau. The verification process will be simplified and accelerated to make it easier for applicants, Federal Minister Mohsin Naqvi said, adding that applicants will be provided full support at every stage.
Salik Hussain described the move as “welcoming,” noting that thousands of Pakistanis will gain legal status.
The meeting was attended via Zoom by Pakistan’s ambassador to Spain, the Consul General in Barcelona, and the Community Welfare Attaché. Other participants included Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Interior Secretary, Secretary of Overseas Pakistanis, Additional Secretary Interior, Chairman NADRA, Director General FIA, Director General Passports, and other senior officials.
