ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has extended the Hajj 2026 application deadline. This unusual move comes as the government scheme’s quota remains partially unfilled. Designated banks will continue accepting applications until all available spots are taken, a significant departure from the previously fixed closing date for the annual pilgrimage.
Current Application Statistics
Ministry Spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt provided the latest figures. Over 114,500 applications have been successfully submitted by aspiring pilgrims. However, approximately 3,500 seats within the government’s allocation are still available. This has prompted officials to keep the application process open to ensure the entire national quota is utilized for the sacred journey.
A Final Call to Pilgrims
Butt issued a direct appeal to all intending pilgrims. He urged them to swiftly submit their completed applications at the nearest nominated bank branches. A clear warning accompanied this request: the application process will terminate immediately once the final 3,500 seats are reserved. Procrastination could result in missing this spiritual opportunity.
Record Interest from Citizens
Despite the unfilled seats, officials highlighted a positive trend. The current number of applications received is being described as a record high for this stage. This overwhelming response is seen as a reflection of the strong, enduring desire among Pakistani citizens to perform Hajj under the official government scheme for the upcoming year.
Flexible Package Options Offered
The 2026 scheme provides two distinct packages to accommodate different needs. Pilgrims can choose between a comprehensive long-duration package lasting 38 to 42 days. Alternatively, a shorter, more concise package of 20 to 25 days is available, offering flexibility for those with time constraints or specific preferences for their pilgrimage experience.
Detailed Hajj Package Costs
Financial details for the pilgrimage have been clearly outlined. The total cost for performing Hajj ranges between approximately Rs1.15 million and Rs1.25 million. This variance depends on the specific package and departure city selected by the applicant, covering all essential services required for the religious journey.
Initial Payment Requirement
A significant initial deposit is mandatory at the time of application. Prospective pilgrims must submit an installment of either Rs500,000 or Rs550,000. This amount is determined by the chosen package—long or short. This payment secures the applicant’s place and initiates the official registration process.
Schedule for Remaining Payment
The ministry has also clarified the payment schedule for the outstanding balance. The remaining dues, after the substantial initial deposit, will be collected starting from November 1, 2025. This staggered payment approach is designed to ease the financial burden on pilgrims, allowing for better budgeting.
Eligibility for Overseas Pakistanis
Important eligibility criteria have been confirmed. The ministry explicitly stated that Overseas Pakistanis are welcome to apply. The primary requirement is possession of a valid Pakistani passport, ensuring all citizens, regardless of residence, have an equal opportunity to participate in the government Hajj scheme.
Government and Private Quota Split
A new policy governs the allocation of pilgrims. Seventy percent of Pakistan’s total Hajj quota is reserved for the government scheme. The remaining thirty percent is allocated to private Hajj tour operators. This split aims to offer citizens a choice between regulated government services and private packages.
Pakistan’s Total Hajj Allocation
The nation’s total pilgrim quota is substantial. Pakistan has been allotted 179,210 spots for the 2026 Hajj season. This total is subdivided, with 119,210 pilgrims scheduled to travel under the government scheme and 60,000 through private operators, pending final confirmation from Saudi authorities.
