The Ministry of Religious Affairs’ recent decision to allow payment for Hajj charges in installments has led to a remarkable increase in applications this year. This change has attracted more applicants who are eager to perform Hajj in 2025, as it makes the financial burden easier to manage. According to official reports, in the first two days alone, 4,774 applications were received, compared to just 1,300 applications during the same period last year. The installment plan has clearly had a positive impact, and it looks like more people will be able to apply for Hajj in the coming years due to the new payment flexibility.
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Key Details of the Hajj 2025 Application Process
The introduction of the installment plan has brought about some changes in how applications are processed. The government has provided clear instructions for both the regular government scheme and the sponsorship scheme. Here is a quick look at the main differences between the two:
| Feature | Regular Government Scheme | Sponsorship Scheme |
| Application Deadline | December 3, 2024 | Ongoing |
| Payment Method | Installments | Full payment in dollars upfront |
| Selection Process | Lottery | First-come, first-served |
| Currency for Payment | Pakistani Rupees | US Dollars |
Increase in Applications Due to Installment Plan
- The new installment plan is the key reason for the surge in Hajj 2025 applications.
- Pilgrims can now pay part of the Hajj charges upfront and the remaining amount in installments.
- This payment structure makes it easier for people who can’t afford the full cost at once.
- The option to pay in installments has made Hajj more affordable for a larger group of people.
- As a result, more people are applying for Hajj, especially considering the high cost of the pilgrimage.
Deadline for Regular Scheme Applications
The deadline for submitting applications for the regular government scheme is December 3, 2024. After this date, the government will conduct a lottery if the number of applications exceeds the available slots for Hajj. The regular scheme requires an initial deposit of Rs. 200,000 along with the application. If the applicant is selected through the lottery, they must pay the remaining Rs. 400,000 by February 10, 2025. The clear timeline helps applicants plan their payments and understand when they need to make their payments.
First-Come, First-Served Sponsorship Scheme
Unlike the regular government scheme, the sponsorship scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that applicants who submit their applications early will be prioritized. However, this scheme requires full payment upfront in US dollars. The sponsorship scheme is ideal for those who can manage the full payment at once and want to secure their spot without waiting for the lottery. Since there are fewer restrictions, the sponsorship scheme provides more flexibility for certain applicants.
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Positive Response from Potential Pilgrims
The new installment payment policy has received a highly positive response from prospective Hajj pilgrims. Last year, the Ministry had to extend the application deadline by 10 days due to low participation. However, the new installment system has significantly boosted interest, and the ministry is seeing a much higher number of applicants this year. The ability to pay in installments has made it possible for many people who could not afford the entire cost upfront to now apply for Hajj.
Conclusion
The decision to allow installment-based payments for Hajj 2025 has been a game-changer for many aspiring pilgrims. The increase in applications shows that the installment plan has made the pilgrimage more accessible to a wider range of people. The government’s clear and transparent system for both the regular and sponsorship schemes has also helped streamline the application process. With the deadline approaching, it is important for applicants to submit their applications on time and follow the guidelines set by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. This positive change in the payment structure is expected to continue to increase Hajj participation in the coming years, making the pilgrimage more affordable and accessible for many.
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FAQs
What is the deadline for submitting applications under the regular government scheme for Hajj 2025?
The deadline for submitting applications is December 3, 2024.
How does the sponsorship scheme differ from the regular government scheme?
The sponsorship scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis and requires full payment in US dollars upfront, whereas the regular government scheme uses a lottery and installment payments.
Why did the number of Hajj applications increase this year?
The introduction of the installment payment plan has made it easier for people to afford Hajj, which resulted in more applications being submitted.