By ABDULLAH 
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially started accepting Hajj 2026 applications under the government’s regular scheme, providing a structured and transparent process for prospective pilgrims across Pakistan. Applications are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis from August 4 to August 9, exclusively for registered applicants.
- Application Dates (Registered Applicants): August 4–9, 2025
- Application Dates (Unregistered Applicants): August 11–16, 2025 (Subject to availability of quota)
- Total Pilgrim Quota for Pakistan: 179,210
- Government Scheme Quota: 119,210 (66.52%)
- Private Scheme Quota: 60,000 (33.48%)
- Hajj Duration Options: 38–42 days or 20–25 days
- No Age Limit: The age cap has been lifted for the first time
- Eligibility Cut-off: Applicants must be born before March 1, 2014
The estimated Hajj expenses under the government scheme will range from Rs1.15 million to Rs1.25 million, depending on the package duration.
| Package Duration | First Installment | Second Installment |
|---|---|---|
| 38–42 Days | Rs500,000 | Payable from Nov 1, 2025 |
| 20–25 Days | Rs550,000 | Payable from Nov 1, 2025 |
Note: The exact breakdown of the second installment will be communicated by the ministry in the coming months.
Applications can be submitted at 14 designated scheduled banks across the country. All applicants must provide:
- A valid CNIC
- Machine-readable passport
- Health certificate
- Proof of initial deposit
The Ministry has emphasized that the portal will automatically close once the quota is filled, so early submission is highly encouraged.
In a significant shift, the federal cabinet has reduced the private Hajj scheme quota to 60,000, reallocating the majority share—over 66%—to the government scheme. This move is aimed at enhancing transparency, affordability, and accessibility for lower- and middle-income pilgrims.
- No Upper Age Limit: Seniors can now apply without restriction.
- Children Under 11 Not Eligible: Individuals born after March 1, 2014, are not permitted to apply.
- Quota-Based Selection: Once the quota is exhausted, no further applications will be entertained, even from unregistered pilgrims.
- Payment Confirmation: Ensure your initial deposit is made to a certified Hajj bank branch and retain all transaction receipts.
Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, assured that the new policy is designed to maximize accessibility and simplify the process. The Ministry has also pledged full support for pilgrims in 2026, including guidance, training, and medical assistance throughout the journey.
With the government’s Hajj 2026 policy now in full swing, interested pilgrims are urged to act quickly. Whether opting for the extended or short-duration package, timely application and complete documentation are key to securing a place in this year’s sacred journey.