Greek embassy cancels visas of hundreds of Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD: Greece has reportedly cancelled the visas of hundreds of Pakistanis while those who migrate or work in the Mediterranean country will be subjected to more stringent checks.

The Greek Times quoting Urdu Media Greece claimed: “The Greek embassy in Islamabad has so far cancelled the visas of hundreds of poor Pakistanis. These Pakistanis get Greek visas by paying 2 to 5 million rupees. When a visa is issued from Greece, the Greek Embassy cancels it. A big injustice to those innocent poor who pay money to get a visa first for work. And the Greek embassy in Islamabad cancels visas.”

Also Read: Greece boat tragedy exposes Pakistan’s migration problem

Urdu Media Greece says there have been calls and messages from hundreds of Pakistani families who have also wasted their money due to their visas being rejected.

“We appeal to the Greek and Pakistani governments to take this issue seriously. Why are they wasting the money of poor Pakistanis?” Urdu Media Greece questioned.

With the economy teetering on edge, inflation reaching nearly 40 percent, and the Pakistani rupee dropping in value, many Pakistanis are looking to go abroad, where even a low salary will likely exceed anything they can earn if they stay.

According to a survey 62 percent of boys and young men aged 15-24 wanted to leave. While some will try to go legally, others will find alternative illegal routes.