The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced on Sunday that 98% of government Pakistani Hajj pilgrims have been issued visas for this year’s pilgrimage, with efforts underway to resolve remaining biometric-related issues affecting a small fraction of applicants.
According to a spokesperson for the ministry, most of the delays are due to biometric complications faced by semi-literate pilgrims or those coming from remote areas. “We are working diligently to issue the remaining 1.5% of visas that are pending due to incorrect biometric data,” the official said.
The ministry’s dedicated Hajj i-Cell is in continuous contact with affected pilgrims to provide assistance and ensure timely resolution of issues. In addition, 0.5% of the visas that were issued with errors are being reprocessed, and the re-issuance will be completed soon.
The spokesperson added that pilgrims who missed their scheduled flights due to visa delays or personal reasons are being accommodated on the next available flights. “Our Hajj camps across the country remain open throughout the week to support and facilitate pilgrims in every possible way,” the official said.
Authorities have reassured the public that all remaining visa issues will be resolved in time for the pilgrimage.
