Pakistan has extended the deadline for Umrah pilgrims departing from Karachi to obtain digitally verified vaccination certificates until September 25.
The extension gives airport authorities more time to implement the new digital certification system. Officials had originally planned to make the system mandatory after September 14.
The new process will link vaccination records with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to allow digital verification.
Manual Certificates Remain Valid
Focalperson for Border Health Services Pakistan Dr Syed Murtaza Shah Bukhari confirmed that authorities had extended the deadline.
“The deadline has been extended until September 25 and manual vaccination certificates will remain valid until then.”
The decision followed a request from Jinnah International Airport management. Officials sought additional time because several agencies needed to coordinate before introducing the system.
Acting Chief Operating Officer Muhammad Qasim highlighted operational concerns in a letter to the Airport Health Officer.
“Implementing this directive without sufficient notice, operational alignment and multi-agency coordination poses severe operational risks at JIAP.”
He said the additional time would help authorities develop a “practical, passenger-friendly implementation strategy in coordination with all stakeholders.”
Karachi to Introduce Digital System First
Border Health Services said Karachi will become the first Pakistani airport to introduce the integrated digital vaccination certification system.
Authorities plan to expand the system to other international airports and border entry and exit points later.
Importantly, the new system does not introduce additional vaccination requirements for Umrah pilgrims.
Instead, it changes how authorities verify existing vaccination records.
Vaccination Rules Remain Unchanged
Saudi Arabia maintains vaccination requirements for Umrah pilgrims based on factors such as their country of origin and health risks.
Therefore, existing vaccination requirements will continue to depend on a traveller’s destination, route and travel category.
Meanwhile, other Pakistani airports will continue using existing certification procedures until authorities introduce the digital system there.
Airport officials have also raised concerns about limited facilities. Qasim said only one dispensary is currently available for digital vaccination cards, adding to implementation challenges.
The September 25 extension will allow authorities more time to address these concerns before making digital verification mandatory for Karachi’s Umrah passengers.
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