Hajj, Umrah and work visa travellers get relief until October 10
Temporary relief for Saudi-bound passengers
Passengers travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, Umrah or work purposes have received temporary relief from the new vaccination requirement at Karachi airport. They can travel without completing the new vaccination process until October 10, 2026.
The relaxation has been announced by Border Health Services Pakistan. It gives travellers additional time to complete the required vaccination and registration process before the new deadline.
Vaccination facility remains available
The vaccination facility at Jinnah International Airport Karachi will continue operating during the temporary relaxation period. Passengers who need vaccinations can use the facility before travelling to Saudi Arabia.
Authorities have advised travellers to complete their vaccination requirements as early as possible. Completing the process before the flight can help passengers avoid delays or difficulties at the airport.
NADRA system records vaccination details
A NADRA digital system has been introduced in Karachi to create a verifiable record of passengers’ vaccination status. Travellers can complete biometric verification and registration through the Pak ID system or a NADRA e-Sahulat facility where applicable.
After registration, passengers can receive the required vaccines and have their vaccination information entered into the digital system. The system is intended to make vaccination records easier to verify and reduce the risk of fake certificates.
Travellers urged not to delay
Authorities have advised passengers not to wait until the day of their flight to complete the vaccination process. Some vaccines must be given a specific number of days before travel.
For example, Saudi health guidance requires the meningococcal ACYW vaccine for relevant pilgrims at least 10 days before arrival. Travellers should therefore check the applicable requirements well before their departure.
Who needs vaccination proof?
The requirements apply to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, work visa holders and certain people planning to stay in Saudi Arabia for more than six months. Depending on the traveller and circumstances, required vaccinations may include polio, meningitis, influenza and yellow fever.
The vaccination rules can vary according to the purpose of travel, destination and health requirements. Passengers are advised to check the requirements that apply to their specific journey before departure.
The temporary relaxation gives Saudi-bound passengers more time to complete the new vaccination process. However, the extension does not remove the underlying vaccination requirements.
Travellers who complete the process early can reduce the risk of last-minute problems at the airport. The NADRA digital record is also aimed at making vaccination verification faster and more reliable.
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