Pakistan Employment Visa

Has anyone had any luck in applying for a work permit / visa for a Pakistani national recently?

I am trying to hire someone but keep getting mixed messages, Some say the system is completely closed to Pakistan nationals (no approvals at all), others say it's usually OK if you have pre-approval first, and others say its almost 100% approved if they are already in country.

Does anyone have any recent real-life experience?

He in country, and previously had a visa / work permit here. Unfortunately it was cancelled to move to us before we found this out.

All thoughts ands guidance appreciated!