The government has extended the biometric verification deadline for Hajj 2026 pilgrims until February 17, making it mandatory for Saudi visa approval.

According to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, biometric verification is now a compulsory requirement set by Saudi authorities. Pilgrims who fail to complete their biometric process by the new deadline will not be issued Hajj visas and will not be able to perform Hajj this year.

Officials clearly warned that no extensions will be granted after February 17. Pilgrims who miss the deadline will lose their eligibility, making it essential to complete the process without delay.

The ministry has introduced convenient options to facilitate pilgrims. Biometric verification can be completed from home using the “Saudi Visa Bio” mobile application. Additionally, Tasheer Centers and Saudi Visa biometric centers will remain open to assist pilgrims who prefer in-person verification.

Authorities advised pilgrims to visit the nearest biometric center immediately or use the mobile app to avoid last-minute issues. After completing the process, pilgrims must obtain a receipt as proof of successful verification.

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However, pilgrims aged over 80 years have been exempted from biometric requirements. Their facial and fingerprint scans will not be required. Instead, they will receive a confirmation email verifying their passport scan.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs urged all intending pilgrims to complete their biometric process urgently to ensure smooth visa issuance and avoid missing the opportunity to perform Hajj in 2026.