Hajj 2026 Biometric Deadline Extended Until Feb 17
Pakistan has extended the Hajj 2026 biometric deadline until Feb 17. This extension offers relief to many intending pilgrims across the country. People now have extra time to complete an important step in the visa process. As a result, applicants can avoid last-minute pressure and complete verification in a smoother way.
Biometric Verification Made Simple
The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced the deadline extension on Monday. Pilgrims can complete biometric verification using the Saudi Visa Bio App. Therefore, many applicants can finish the process from home.
A ministry spokesperson said this service will reduce delays. In addition, it will help people avoid unnecessary travel to offices. The ministry also confirmed that Saudi authorities will issue Hajj visas only after biometric completion.
However, pilgrims above 80 years old do not need biometric verification. Applicants should keep confirmation emails or receipts for record purposes. This practice will help if any issue arises
later.
Pilgrims who want in-person assistance can visit Saudi Tasheer Centers. These centers operate in six major cities across Pakistan. For example, applicants can complete biometric checks quickly at these locations.
Visa Issuance and Quota Updates
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has started issuing Hajj 2026 visas from Feb 8. This step marks an important milestone in pilgrimage preparations. Pakistan has also requested an increase in its Hajj quota.
Officials asked Saudi authorities to raise the quota to 230,000 seats. Currently, Saudi Arabia has allocated 179,210 seats for Pakistan. Out of these, the government scheme will cover around 118,000 pilgrims. Private tour operators will manage the remaining seats. Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf shared more updates in Islamabad. He said over 38,000 pilgrims will travel under the Route to Makkah project. The government also plans to expand this facility to Lahore soon. At present, it operates only in Islamabad and Karachi.
Overall, Pakistan has finalized Hajj 2026 arrangements under Saudi guidelines. These steps aim to make the pilgrimage smoother, more organized, and inclusive for everyone.
