ISLAMABAD:
The first phase of applications for the Government Hajj Scheme 2026 has been completed, with more than 71,000 pilgrims submitting their applications along with the first instalment of the fee amounting to Rs500,000.
According to officials, the initial phase was open exclusively to those who had already registered for Hajj, while the second phase, set to commence on August 11 (Monday), will allow both registered and unregistered pilgrims to submit their applications.
The second phase will continue until August 16, with applications accepted alongside the payment of the first instalment of expenses. In this phase, applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
It is expected that over 116,000 Pakistani pilgrims will perform Hajj this year under the government quota.
Applicants who submit their applications along with the fee early will secure their chance, as the submission of applications will be closed once the quota is filled.
According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, overseas Pakistanis may also apply for Hajj through close relatives at the designated banks.
Medical fitness certificates for overseas applicants will be submitted upon their arrival in Pakistan.
The ministry has said that once the quota is complete, the process of receiving Hajj applications will be officially halted.
