The federal government has introduced an early passport renewal facility for Pakistanis planning to perform Hajj in 2027. The move aims to help intending pilgrims meet the mandatory passport validity requirements before applying for Hajj.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs requested the facility, after which the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports issued instructions to passport offices nationwide. Officials have directed all passport centres to process eligible applications on a priority basis.
According to the ministry, every Hajj 2027 applicant must hold a Pakistani passport valid until November 16, 2027. Therefore, authorities have allowed applicants to renew their passports before the usual eligibility period.
Passport Offices to Prioritise Hajj Applicants
The ministry’s spokesperson said intending pilgrims would receive early passport renewals under Rule 3(c) of the Passport Rules. The facility will benefit applicants whose existing passports do not meet the required validity period.
Passport offices across Pakistan have been instructed to accept and process these applications without unnecessary delays. Consequently, eligible pilgrims can complete their travel documentation well before the Hajj application deadline.
The government has also issued similar instructions to passport offices at Pakistani missions abroad. Overseas Pakistanis planning to perform Hajj in 2027 will receive priority processing for passport renewal applications.
Ministry Urges Pilgrims to Complete Documentation
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has advised intending pilgrims to secure a passport valid until November 16, 2027, before submitting their Hajj applications. Officials warned that applications without the required passport validity will not be accepted.
The ministry said the early renewal facility is intended to prevent delays during the Hajj application process. Furthermore, authorities urged prospective pilgrims to complete all documentation as early as possible.
Officials believe the initiative will simplify preparations for Hajj 2027 and ensure applicants meet all travel requirements. The government also expects the measure to improve the overall application process for intending pilgrims.
