Islamabad: Fifteen designated banks have commenced the process of accepting Hajj applications, as announced by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Prospective pilgrims are required to submit an initial deposit of two hundred thousand rupees alongside their applications, with a second installment due following a balloting process.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the government has allocated 89,605 slots for the Hajj scheme this year, with an additional 5,000 seats reserved for overseas Pakistanis under a sponsorship scheme. Those applying from abroad will need to make a one-time payment in U.S. dollars. The government Hajj package encompasses airfare, meals, training, accommodation, and vaccination.
The ministry’s spokesperson further clarified that individuals with severe or complex medical conditions, as well as children under the age of twelve, will not be permitted to undertake the pilgrimage this year.