HBL Expected to Handle All Applications and Payments
Pakistan is preparing a major change to the Hajj 2027 application process.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has decided to appoint one bank for all applications and payments, according to official sources.
Habib Bank Limited is expected to receive applications under both the government and private Hajj schemes.
The move will replace the previous system in which 16 banks accepted applications and collected Hajj payments.
All financial transactions linked to Hajj 2027 will reportedly be processed through HBL.
Applicants will be able to submit their forms and deposit payments through HBL branches or its online banking system.
The ministry and HBL are expected to sign a formal agreement in the coming days.
Sources said HBL was selected because of its large branch network and digital banking facilities.
The centralised system is expected to simplify payments and improve application tracking.
Government Scheme Applications May Open Soon
Applications for the Hajj 2027 government scheme are expected to open later this week.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs will announce the official schedule shortly.
Applicants will receive detailed instructions about registration, required documents and payment deadlines.
The ministry is also expected to explain the online application process.
Pilgrims applying under the private scheme will also use the same bank for payments.
The change is intended to create a single financial channel for the entire Hajj operation.
Officials are expected to issue complete guidelines after the agreement with HBL is finalised.
Pakistan Receives Quota of 179,210 Pilgrims
Pakistan has received a Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims for 2027.
Under the approved distribution, 60 percent of the quota will be allocated to the government Hajj scheme.
This will allow 107,832 pilgrims to travel through the government programme.
The remaining 40 percent will be assigned to private Hajj operators.
A total of 71,888 pilgrims will perform Hajj through the private scheme.
Applicants are expected to pay Hajj expenses in two instalments.
Those selecting the long Hajj package will reportedly deposit Rs500,000 in the first phase.
Applicants choosing the short Hajj package will pay an initial instalment of Rs550,000.
The remaining amount will be collected later under a schedule issued by the ministry.
The final cost of each package has not yet been officially announced.
The ministry is expected to publish the complete payment structure, eligibility conditions and application deadlines soon.
