In a major relief for intending Hajj pilgrims, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has secured approval from the passport office to allow early renewal of passports for applicants planning to perform Hajj in 2027. According to the ministry, all applicants for Hajj 2027 must possess a valid Pakistani passport that remains effective until 16 November 2027. Applications submitted without a passport meeting this validity requirement will not be accepted.

Following a request from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Passport Office has issued directives permitting prospective Hajj pilgrims to renew their passports before the normal renewal period. The facility has been introduced under Passport Rules 3(c) to help applicants complete the Hajj process without facing passport-related delays. The Passport Office has also instructed passport offices across Pakistan and at Pakistani missions abroad to accept and process early passport renewal applications from Hajj 2027 applicants on a priority basis.

The move is aimed at ensuring that intending pilgrims can complete the required documentation well before the Hajj application process begins. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs urged all prospective Hajj pilgrims to ensure that their passports remain valid until 16 November 2027. The spokesperson emphasised that a valid Pakistani passport is a mandatory requirement for submitting a Hajj 2027 application and advised applicants to renew their passports as early as possible to avoid any inconvenience during the application process.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)