The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has announced that Friday, February 14, is the deadline for pilgrims to pay the third installment under the Government Hajj Scheme.

Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt advised all pilgrims to ensure payment at designated banks by the deadline and to collect a computerized receipt for their Hajj dues. Failure to submit the payment may result in the cancellation of their Hajj application.

Pilgrims can also modify their preferences for sacrificial arrangements, stay duration, room facilities, and departure points through their respective banks.

The ministry confirmed that refunds for the saved Rs 4.75 billion from Hajj 2024 are ongoing. Most banks have already processed refunds, and those who have not received theirs should contact their bank branches.

The federal government recently reduced Hajj package costs to ease the financial burden on pilgrims. The 40-day Hajj package has been reduced by Rs 25,000 to Rs 10,50,000, while the 25-day short package is now Rs 11,00,000, a Rs 50,000 reduction from the previous price of Rs 1,150,000.

This reduction was made possible after successful talks between Pakistan’s government committee and Saudi authorities. Pilgrims must now pay Rs 450,000 for the long package and Rs 500,000 for the short package as their third installment.