By My Rishta Pakistan · Updated
What Pakistani families in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia should know about finding a rishta: values, paperwork, family meetings and avoiding scams.
Pakistani families in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia often grow up with two cultures at home. When it is time to look for a rishta, the questions are different from those in Pakistan: language, lifestyle, career choices and where to settle. This guide helps families on both sides talk about them openly.
Be honest about lifestyle and values
A person raised in Toronto or Manchester may have different habits from one raised in Lahore or Karachi, and that is not a problem if both sides know it. Talk about religion in daily life, food, dress, friendships, career plans and family involvement. Honest answers early prevent disappointment later.
Language and family
- Ask which languages the person is comfortable speaking with in-laws.
- Discuss how often the couple will visit Pakistan and how they will look after parents.
- Agree how much the extended family will be involved in decisions.
Immigration and paperwork
Rules for sponsoring a spouse change over time and are different in each country. Use the official government websites or a qualified adviser to check the current requirements. Do not rely on a profile or a stranger for this information. Allow plenty of time for documents.
Take the first steps through family
Speak to relatives and friends who know the person. Arrange a video call with both families before any travel. For ideas on what to ask, read questions to ask during a first rishta meeting and our guide to rishta meeting etiquette.
Protect yourself from scams
Overseas rishtas are a common target for fake profiles. Be careful if someone asks for money, gifts or documents early, avoids video calls, or pressures you to decide quickly. Our safety tips / حفاظتی مشورے explain the warning signs, and the article on warning signs in a proposal lists what to check.
For families in Pakistan
If a proposal comes from abroad, ask for details of the job, the family and the plans after marriage, and meet someone who can confirm them in person. A serious family will not mind.
MyRishta.pk is a free service run by My Rishta Pakistan, a non-profit in Lahore. You can register for free and read our guide to rishta for overseas Pakistanis.