Banks in Pakistan, specifically designated ones, commence operations today, ready to accept Hajj pilgrimage applications.
Pakistan Announces Hajj Application Process for 2026
Pakistan has begun accepting applications for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2026, with a quota of 179,210 pilgrims approved by Saudi Arabia. The application process is now open and will close on August 16, 2025, or when the quota is filled.
The process for submitting applications involves several steps. Applicants must have completed biometric verification and data submission through NADRA by July 9, 2025, to be eligible for the Hajj 2026 draw. Applications can be submitted online through the Ministry of Religious Affairs portal or at designated banks.
Initially, only registered applicants can apply from August 4 to August 9, while the second phase from August 11 to August 16 allows both registered and unregistered applicants to submit applications. Overseas Pakistanis can also apply through close relatives via designated banks and must submit medical fitness certificates upon arrival in Pakistan.
Applicants must hold valid Pakistani passports valid at least until November 26, 2026, and be at least 12 years old by March 1, 2014. Groups of up to 14 people can apply together under the same scheme category.
The total cost for the Government Hajj Scheme ranges from Rs. 1,150,000 to Rs. 1,250,000, payable in two installments. The first installment payment deadline is from August 4 to August 9, 2025, for registered applicants, and for unregistered applicants, it is from August 11 to August 16, 2025.
Last year, a large portion of the private Hajj quota for 2025 remained unutilized due to delays by tour operators. However, the government fulfilled its full allocation of over 88,000 pilgrims.
As of now, over 58,000 Hajj applications have been received from intending pilgrims for Hajj 2026. The State Bank of Pakistan has issued instructions to 14 banks for Hajj application processing.
The Radio Pakistan broadcaster reported this information, citing a ministry spokesman. Banks in Pakistan are open for Hajj application receipt from registered pilgrims. The second installment of Hajj dues will be collected starting in November this year. The government Hajj package duration is either 38-42 days or 20-25 days.
Pilgrims are advised to complete their applications and first installment payments promptly to secure their spots for the Hajj 2026. For more information, visit the Ministry of Religious Affairs portal or contact designated banks.
Art enthusiasts might find it interesting to note that the State Bank of Pakistan has issued instructions to 14 banks for Hajj application processing, also opening up an opportunity for banking-and-insurance institutions to offer financial services related to the pilgrimage.
The travel industry in Pakistan could experience a boom with the announcement of the Hajj application process for 2026, as overseas Pakistanis plan their trips back home to register for the pilgrimage.
As the Ministry of Religious Affairs and designated banks work together to process applications, the business sector may find opportunities in the lifestyle sector, offering services tailored towards Pakistanis preparing for the Hajj.
This year, the government aims to fill the quota of 179,210 pilgrims, and the finance industry will play a significant role in ensuring the smooth payment of the Government Hajj Scheme, which ranges from Rs. 1,150,000 to Rs. 1,250,000, payable in two installments.
In the news, the successful completion of the Hajj application process for 2026 in Pakistan highlights the crucial role of the banking-and-insurance and travel industries in facilitating the religious journey for millions of Muslims around the world.
