Hajj visa biometrics deadline extended to Feb 17, ministry says

Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has extended the deadline for completing Saudi visa biometric verification for this year’s Hajj to February 17.

In its statement, the ministry said intending pilgrims can complete the biometric process using a mobile application from home. The process can also be carried out at Saudi Tasheer Centres established in six major cities, and pilgrims have been advised to retain the receipt or confirmation email issued by the centres.

A ministry spokesperson stressed that biometric verification is mandatory for the issuance of a Hajj visa and that visas will not be issued without completing the required process.

The update follows confirmation from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah that Hajj visas would begin issuing globally from February 8 under an accelerated schedule aimed at improving readiness and pilgrim services. Reports cited by the story noted the earlier launch aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 planning.

The report further cited figures indicating large-scale registrations and preparations for international pilgrims. In Pakistan, authorities have confirmed registration for both government and private Hajj pilgrims, while preparations are said to be underway according to the Saudi timeline, including arrangements for food, transport and related services.

Officials also highlighted that training sessions with audio-visual support are being conducted nationwide to prepare pilgrims for the journey and procedures.