Hajj 2025 application deadline ends today as over 54,000 apply.

The deadline for submitting applications for Hajj 2025 is set to expire today, with more than 54,000 aspirants having already applied for the pilgrimage. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony anticipates that the number of applications will continue to rise as the day progresses, and they expect the quota for the government Hajj scheme to be fully subscribed by the end of the day.

Muhammad Umar Butt, a spokesperson for the ministry, confirmed that 15 banks across the country have been designated to collect applications and dues from those wishing to perform Hajj. He also stated that the finalisation of the Hajj flight schedule and accommodations in Madina would be completed once the application submission process concludes.

The application process, which began on November 18, has seen a significant uptick in applications, partly due to the availability of an installment-based payment option for Hajj expenses under the regular scheme. Butt urged overseas Pakistanis to ensure their participation by sending sponsorship funds before the deadline of December 3.

The government aims to facilitate approximately 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims for Hajj 2025 under the government scheme, with the total cost ranging between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000 per individual. Pilgrims must submit an initial payment of Rs200,000 with their application and an additional Rs400,000 after being selected through a ballot. The remaining balance will need to be paid by February 10, 2025.

For those who wish to cancel their participation, a refund of the first installment will be provided after a Rs50,000 deduction. However, failure to pay the third installment will result in a Rs200,000 deduction, with no refunds issued after February 10, 2025.

The government’s Hajj policy for 2025 also includes an increase in compensation for the heirs of deceased pilgrims, from Rs1 million to Rs2 million. Additionally, 1,000 seats will be allocated for hardship cases, and 300 seats will be reserved for labourers and low-income employees who are registered under the Employees Old-Age Benefit Institution (EOBI) or the Workers Welfare Fund.