How to apply through Sponsorship Scheme for Hajj 2024? In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has outlined a comprehensive procedure for submitting Hajj applications under the Sponsorship Scheme for the year 2024.
The details were revealed in a social media video on Thursday, where a ministry spokesperson provided crucial steps for intending pilgrims.
Prospective Hajj participants are advised to begin by obtaining information about the various Hajj packages available through banks.
The ministry’s website serves as a valuable resource for additional details, including a calculator to estimate the applicable Hajj dues.
How to apply through Sponsorship Scheme for Hajj 2024?
The spokesperson emphasized the need for overseas Pakistanis to initiate remittances promptly. Remittances can be sent through legal channels, including banking applications.
Accuracy is paramount, with the remitted amount requiring specification, along with the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) of the beneficiary and the relevant branch code.
Upon the receipt of remittances in the designated account, either the applicant or their representative can visit any bank to complete the application process.
Essential documentation includes the CNIC, the CNIC of the next of kin, blood bank details, four passport-size photographs with a blue background, a Covid certificate, and other documents as specified by the bank.
The official also highlighted the necessity of submitting medical fitness certificates, following the bank’s guidelines.
For those situated outside Pakistan, an alternative provision allows the submission of a written statement on plain paper declaring fitness for travel.
An attested medical fitness certificate can be provided upon arrival in Pakistan.
It’s pertinent to note that the government is currently accepting Hajj applications, and the deadline for submission is December 12th.
Notably, this year marks the introduction of a Short Hajj package spanning 25 days, catering to individuals unable to participate in the traditional Long Hajj. The cost of the Short Hajj package exceeds that of the regular Long Hajj.
Saudi Arabia has allocated approximately 180,000 seats for Pakistani pilgrims in 2024, with half of these seats designated for private Hajj operators across the country.
In a gesture benefiting applicants, the Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed, recently announced a further reduction of Rs 50,000 in the cost of Hajj for 2024. This amount will be reimbursed directly to the accounts of the applicants, aiming to enhance accessibility to the sacred pilgrimage.
