Hajj and Umrah pilgrims face new NADRA rule from Sept 14

New vaccination rule for pilgrims

Hajj and Umrah pilgrims travelling from Pakistan will need NADRA-linked vaccination certificates from Sept. 14. The condition has been introduced by Border Health Services-Pakistan (BHS-P) through a notice issued on Sept. 7.

The notice was sent to the chief operating officers of airlines. It covers vaccinations against polio, meningitis, yellow fever and influenza before departure.

Only NADRA-linked proof will be accepted

The BHS-P said no passenger would be allowed to travel without “NADRA-integrated” proof of vaccination from Sept. 14. Airlines have been asked to inform their travel agents about the new requirement.

The airlines were directed to “strictly inform their travel agents that from now on, only proof of vaccination linked to Nadra will be acceptable for travel”. Umrah pilgrims must also obtain a “digital vaccine card linked to NADRA from an authorised vaccination centre” before departure.

Authorised centre and airport facility

The federal Government Civil Dispensary has been declared the only authorised centre for vaccinating international travellers going for Hajj or Umrah. The decision follows directions from the federal health minister.

Vaccination and online registration facilities are also expected to become available at airports in the coming days. Passengers who need vaccination at the airport have been advised to arrive six hours before their flights.

Payment through e-Sahulat platform

The vaccination fee will be paid through NADRA’s e-Sahulat platform. Pilgrims have been advised to complete the vaccination and registration process early to avoid delays at the airport.

The new condition comes as Pakistan continues to strengthen health checks for international travellers. In January, the country decided to enforce “strict and enhanced health surveillance” at entry points to prevent the cross-border spread of Nipah virus.

The new rule aims to improve vaccination records and strengthen health checks for pilgrims. However, travellers should arrange their certificates early to avoid problems or missed flights.

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