The government has started accepting applications for Hajj 2026 under the official scheme. Registered applicants can submit their forms and initial payments by August 9. Hajj expenses under the government scheme will be collected in two installments. For the longer pilgrimage of 38 to 42 days, the first installment is set at Rs. 500,000. For the shorter 20 to 25-day package, the first installment is Rs. 550,000. 

Applications can be submitted at 14 designated banks across the country. According to sources, the second installment will be collected starting November 1. Once the quota for the government scheme is filled, the application process will be closed. Remaining seats will be offered to unregistered applicants, who can apply between August 11 and 16.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)