Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced a major facilitation measure for intending Hajj pilgrims by allowing the early renewal of passports for Hajj 2027 applicants.

According to the ministry, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports has issued formal instructions to passport offices across the country following the ministry's request. The move aims to ensure that prospective pilgrims meet the passport validity requirement well before the Hajj application process begins.

The ministry said all applicants for Hajj 2027 must possess a Pakistani passport that remains valid until 16 November 2027. To make the process easier, passport offices have been directed to accept applications for early passport renewal and process them on a priority basis.

Officials said intending pilgrims will be able to renew their passports before the usual eligibility period under Passport Rules 3(c), preventing last-minute delays that could affect their Hajj applications.

The instructions have also been extended to Pakistani missions and passport offices abroad, where officials have been asked to process renewal requests quickly for overseas Pakistanis planning to perform Hajj.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs urged all intending pilgrims to renew their passports well in advance and keep valid travel documents ready before the Hajj registration process begins.

Authorities warned that applications for Hajj 2027 will not be accepted without a passport valid until 16 November 2027. The ministry said the early renewal facility is intended to simplify preparations and help applicants complete the pilgrimage process smoothly and without unnecessary complications.