Pakistan Origin Card (POC) holders are set to receive access to Pakistan’s Hajj quota for the first time in 2027. Saudi Arabia has approved their inclusion under Pakistan’s allocated pilgrimage quota.
The new arrangement will allow eligible POC holders to perform Hajj through both government and private schemes. Consequently, thousands of Pakistanis living abroad could gain a new opportunity to undertake the pilgrimage through Pakistan’s quota.
1,792 POC Holders Can Perform Hajj
Under the approved arrangement, one percent of Pakistan’s total Hajj quota will be reserved for POC holders.
This allocation means 1,792 POC holders will be eligible to perform Hajj in 2027. The facility specifically applies to foreign nationals of Pakistani origin who previously held Pakistani citizenship.
These individuals later surrendered their Pakistani nationality and passports. However, they remain eligible to obtain a Pakistan Origin Card under applicable rules.
The new facility therefore provides them with access to Pakistan’s Hajj arrangements despite their current foreign nationality.
Government and Private Hajj Schemes Available
POC holders will be able to benefit from both government and private Hajj schemes. However, their participation will depend on Saudi Arabia’s visa requirements.
Sources said applicants must face no legal or administrative obstacles that could prevent the issuance of Saudi visas.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs will announce detailed terms and conditions for POC holders. It will publish the information through its official website before the application process begins.
The application procedure will also incorporate requirements set by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Ministry to Raise Awareness Among POC Holders
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has directed relevant authorities to create awareness among eligible POC holders. The campaign will explain the new facility and the requirements applicants must meet.
The development marks an important change for Pakistani-origin foreign nationals seeking to perform Hajj through Pakistan’s quota.
Previously, POC holders did not have access to Pakistan’s allocated Hajj quota. Now, the dedicated one-percent allocation will give eligible applicants a formal pathway to join the pilgrimage arrangements.
With 1,792 places available in 2027, the new policy could make Hajj more accessible for Pakistan-origin foreign nationals who maintain their connection with the country through the Pakistan Origin Card.
