The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced an unprecedented move: all applications submitted under the government Hajj scheme for 2025 have been approved. This decision was made following the conclusion of the third extension for Hajj applications, which ended with 82,000 submissions—7,000 short of the allocated quota.

In a bid to ensure every eligible applicant gets the chance to perform Hajj, the ministry is now working to fill the remaining slots through one of two options: reopening applications or allocating the unclaimed quota to private Hajj operators. A decision on this matter is expected shortly.

Key Updates for Hajj 2025 Pilgrims

• Quota Details: A total of 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj under the government scheme.
• Cost Estimates: The pilgrimage cost per individual ranges between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000.
• Payment Schedule:
  • Rs200,000 with the application.
  • Rs400,000 post-selection via balloting.
  • Remaining amount by February 10, 2025.

Important Deadlines and Refund Policies

• Second Instalment Deadline: Pilgrims must deposit the second instalment from December 19 to 27 at one of 15 designated banks.
• Refund Policy:
  • Rs50,000 will be deducted if the application is canceled during the first instalment phase.
  • Rs200,000 will be deducted for cancellations during the second instalment phase.
  • No refunds will be issued after February 10, 2025.

Special Allocations and Support

• Hardship Cases: 1,000 seats reserved.
• Low-Income Employees: 300 seats allocated under EOBI.
• Compensation Increase: Heirs of deceased pilgrims will now receive Rs2 million, up from Rs1 million.

For aspiring pilgrims, this marks a crucial step in the journey to fulfill a religious obligation. Stay updated for more announcements on the allocation of the remaining quota.