Hajj Application Starting Date Changed

The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Pakistan has announced a change to the starting date for receiving Hajj 2027 applications. The process will now commence on August 18, as opposed to the previous August 17 date. Applications and payments will be accepted through branches of Habib Bank on a first-come, first-served basis, with the government stopping new applications once the allocated quota is reached.

Pakistan's total Hajj quota for 2027 stands at 179,210 pilgrims, with 60% of seats reserved for the government Hajj scheme (107,526) and 40% allocated to the private scheme (71,684). According to sources, Hajj expenses will be collected in two equal installments, with half the amount due upon application submission. Notably, Pakistan Origin Card holders will participate in the 2027 Hajj quota for the first time, with 1% of seats (1,792) reserved for them.

These applicants can apply through both government and private schemes, provided they meet Saudi visa requirements and there are no legal or administrative obstacles. The Ministry of Religious Affairs plans to publish the detailed terms and conditions on its official website soon.