The federal government has announced November 18 as the date for receiving Hajj 2025 applications under the government scheme, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Thursday.
The Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs released the details for the Hajj 2025, launching the process from November 18 until December 3, with an extended deadline for those holding valid passports to apply until December 6.
The intending pilgrims can submit their applications in scheduled banks until December 3 and the expenses will be received from them in three installments. The first installment of Rs200,000 will be deposited along with the application, if successful in balloting second installment of Rs400,000 will have to be submitted and the remaining amount will be deposited by February 10, 2025.
Extra payment will have to be made for sacrificial animals and double or triple bedrooms.
Priority will be given to first-time applicants under the regular government scheme, and the draw is set for December 6.
Hajj expenses are projected to be between Rs10,75,000 and Rs11,75,000 and applicants are required to meet specific criteria, including physical and mental health conditions outlined as per the Saudi policy.
Applicants born before February 12, 2013, are eligible; a medical certificate will be mandatory.
Overseas Pakistanis can download medical certificate forms from the ministry’s website. Those applying for passports may also submit a token application.
All members of a group must select the same Hajj package style, as changes to the package will not be allowed post-draw.
Special arrangements include room allocations for Mehram's relatives, with four to six people per room.
Women can now travel without a Mahram, and selecting a family status on the application is mandatory.
The entire application process and fee submission are available online under the regular scheme, simplifying access for applicants across Pakistan.
Reporter Shahid Sipra