ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that all applications submitted under the government Hajj scheme for 2025 have been approved.
This decision follows the ministry’s declaration that all applications received by the close of the third extension period are accepted. By the deadline, a total of 82,000 Hajj applications were submitted, falling short of the allocated quota by 7,000. Despite this shortfall, the ministry confirmed that every applicant has been approved.
Efforts are underway to allocate the remaining 7,000 slots in the government Hajj quota. The ministry is considering two options:
- Reopening the application process to fill the unclaimed quota.
- Allocating the remaining slots to private Hajj operators.
A final decision on this matter is expected soon as preparations for the pilgrimage progress.
The deadline for submitting Hajj 2025 applications expired on Tuesday. The ministry has advised aspiring pilgrims to deposit the second instalment of their Hajj dues between December 19 and 27 at any of the 15 designated banks.
Under the 2025 Hajj scheme, a total of 179,210 Pakistanis are expected to perform Hajj. The cost per pilgrim ranges between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000. Applicants must pay Rs200,000 with their application, followed by an additional Rs400,000 upon selection through a balloting process. The remaining balance is due by February 10, 2025.
In case of cancellation, the ministry has stated that Rs50,000 will be deducted from the first instalment, while Rs200,000 will be deducted if the third instalment is unpaid. No refunds will be issued after February 10, 2025.
Additionally, the government has increased compensation for the heirs of deceased pilgrims from Rs1 million to Rs2 million. Furthermore, 1,000 seats have been reserved for hardship cases, and 300 seats will be allocated to low-income employees registered with the Employees Old-Age Benefit Institution (EOBI).
For further updates and details, applicants are encouraged to stay informed through official ministry channels.
