Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony urges timely submission of Hajj 2023 applications
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony in Pakistan has informed the public that the last date for Hajj applications is March 31 and there will be no extensions.
The ministry spokesperson, Muhammad Umar Butt, has urged all aspiring pilgrims to submit their Hajj applications and dues in the given time period. In this article, we will discuss the details of the Hajj applications and provide information on some important aspects related to the application process.
Number of Hajj applications received
According to the spokesperson, the ministry has received 44,621 Hajj applications through designated banks so far. Out of these, 40,313 applications were received under the government Hajj scheme, while 4,308 applications were received under the sponsorship Hajj scheme. The designated banks remained open on weekends across the country to facilitate the intending pilgrims.
Overseas Pakistanis can submit health certificates issued abroad
Addressing concerns of overseas Pakistanis, the spokesperson informed that they could submit a health certificate issued from abroad in the bank, or they could furnish a medical fitness certificate before their Hajj flight. Those who have not received the coronavirus vaccine can also submit the application, but they will get a full dose of the vaccine and submit the certificate to the banks before their departure to Saudi Arabia. Apart from NADRA [National Database and Registration Authority], a foreign vaccine certificate will also be acceptable.
Sponsorship requirements for Hajj 2023
Butt clarified that it is not necessary for the person sending sponsorship to have a blood relation with the pilgrim. However, it is essential to send the name, CNIC number, and contact number of the pilgrim along with the money.
The expected reduction in Hajj 2023 expenses
According to official sources in the ministry, a reduction of Rs45,000 is expected in the Hajj expenses under the government Hajj scheme. If the Pakistani currency does not fall further, the benefit will be transferred to pilgrims by the ministry.
The ministry is trying to make the Hajj package cheaper, and negotiations with the Saudi government are underway. After the reduction, the government Hajj scheme for the northern region will be from Rs1,175,000 to Rs1,130,000 while it will be from Rs1,165,000 to Rs1,120,000 for the southern region.
To make it easier for those who plan to go on Hajj in 2023 to submit their application forms and payments, the State Bank of Pakistan has instructed 14 authorized banks to keep their designated branches open on both Saturday and Sunday (March 25-26, 2023) across the country, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has urged all aspiring pilgrims to submit their Hajj applications and dues by March 31, 2023, and has provided details on the application process, sponsorship requirements, and expected reduction in Hajj expenses. It is important for intending pilgrims to follow the guidelines provided by the ministry to ensure a smooth Hajj experience.
