Second Phase of Hajj 2026 Applications for Pakistan Begins

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has wrapped up the first phase of Hajj 2026 applications for Pakistan, receiving over 71,000 submissions from pre-registered pilgrims, officials confirmed on Saturday. Each applicant paid the initial instalment, Rs500,000 for the standard package, through designated banks to secure their place in the government quota.

The next stage is set to open from August 11 to August 16, marking the first time both registered and unregistered pilgrims can apply together. Officials have warned that this phase will operate strictly on a “first come, first served” basis, meaning once the 116,000-seat government quota is filled, no further applications will be accepted.

Second Phase: Key Dates and Eligibility

In addition to domestic applicants, overseas Pakistanis can also join the process by authorising a close relative in Pakistan to submit their forms and payments. Medical fitness certificates for these applicants may be filed upon arrival in Pakistan. The ministry emphasised that an official notice will be issued immediately once the quota is exhausted.

The overall Hajj quota for Pakistan stands at 179,210 pilgrims, with 119,210 allocated to the government scheme and the remaining 60,000 reserved for private operators, pending final approval from Saudi authorities. Pilgrims under the government scheme will have a choice between a 38–42 day package and a shorter 20–25 day option, with costs expected to range between Rs1.15 million and Rs1.25 million.

Applicants must hold passports valid until at least November 26, 2026. Children under 12 years of age are not eligible for the pilgrimage. All participants are required to be vaccinated with Saudi-approved vaccines, and animal sacrifice payments will be made only through the official Saudi system.

Special Provisions for Overseas Pilgrims

The government confirmed that the “Road to Makkah” initiative, streamlining pre-departure immigration procedures, will continue at Islamabad and Karachi airports. For Hajj 2026 applications for Pakistan, overseas pilgrims will be allowed to remit payments directly into nominated bank accounts, ensuring a smoother process.

Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf assured that deposits for Hajj dues will be made in two instalments: Rs500,000 for the long package and Rs550,000 for the short package, with the balance payable later.