Application process for the Hajj 2026 in Pakistan commences in its second phase
Pakistan's preparations for the annual Islamic pilgrimage, Hajj 2026, are well underway. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and designated banks are currently accepting applications for the pilgrimage, with the deadline for submitting applications and the first installment of Hajj expenses set for August 18, 2025.
As of mid-August 2025, over 110,000 applications have been received under the government scheme. The quota for Hajj 2026 stands at 179,210 pilgrims, with 129,210 seats reserved for the government scheme and the remainder allocated to private tour operators in Pakistan.
Applications are being processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and the government scheme is filling up quickly. The online application portal stopped accepting applications at midnight on August 16, 2025, after which applications can only be submitted at designated banks.
Pilgrims have the option to choose between a long Hajj package (38–42 days) or a short package (20–25 days), with estimated costs ranging from Rs1,150,000 to Rs1,250,000 ($4,050–4,236). An initial deposit of Rs500,000 or Rs550,000 is required during application, with the balance due in November.
Overseas Pakistanis can apply for Hajj through a close relative via designated banks. Medical fitness certificates for overseas applicants must be submitted upon arrival in Pakistan.
Last year, Pakistan fulfilled its share of over 88,000 Hajj pilgrims, while a significant portion of the private allocation went unused due to delays by tour operators. This year, private operators have faced similar challenges, with technical issues such as payment processing and communication problems cited as the main reasons for the delays.
The spokesperson for the religious affairs ministry announced the start of the second phase of Hajj applications on Monday. More information on the specific reasons for the delays by tour operators in meeting payment and registration deadlines was not provided.
The second phase of Hajj 2026 application submissions has begun in Pakistan, offering an opportunity for unregistered pilgrims to apply. It is expected that the quota will fill up quickly, so potential pilgrims are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
[1] Associated Press of Pakistan, "Hajj 2026: Applications for Government Scheme Reach 110,000," August 18, 2025. [2] The News International, "Hajj 2026: Government Scheme Filling Up Fast, Private Operators Face Challenges," August 19, 2025. [3] The Express Tribune, "Hajj 2026: Deadline for Government Scheme Applications Extended to August 18," August 17, 2025. [4] The Dawn, "Hajj 2026: Biometric Registration and Data Submission Deadline Extended to July 9," July 8, 2025. [5] The Business Recorder, "Hajj 2026: Applications Processed on First-Come, First-Served Basis," August 17, 2025.
