For Haj pilgrims: Passport offices to remain open on weekends

ISLAMABAD: Passport delivery counters would remain opened all over the country on weekends to facilitate Haj pilgrims from March 2 to March 15, a spokesman for the Immigration and Passport (IMPASS), said Sunday.

Director General of Immigration and Passports Mustafa Jamal Qazi said in a press release issued by the IMPASS that the step was aimed at facilitating pilgrims intending to perform Haj.

He confirmed that from March 2 to March 15, the passport delivery centers would operate on Saturdays and Sundays.

Mustafa Jamal Qazi mentioned that citizens could also contact the passport office from 9 am to 1 pm even on Fridays to get their passports.

The issuance of passports for prospective Haj pilgrims has commenced across Pakistan, bringing relief and anticipation to thousands of individuals preparing for performing Haj, spokesman said.

Regional passport offices have opened their doors exclusively on Saturday to facilitate the smooth processing of passport applications, he maintained.

The issuance of passports is particularly aimed at the 28,000 Haj pilgrims choosing the official package for the pilgrimage, who are urged to promptly approach the passport office concerned to initiate the necessary procedure. Notably, the process requires biometric verification after which the passports have to be submitted to the respective banks, said sources in the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Pilgrims are reminded of the importance of adhering to the designated timelines, with the last date for passport submission to banks set for February 26, the spokesman said. This deadline serves as a crucial milestone in the preparation journey for Haj, emphasising the need for timely completion of administrative formalities.

As the issuance of passports gains momentum, anticipation builds among pilgrims eager to embark on the sacred pilgrimage. The coordinated efforts of all stakeholders reflect a collective commitment to facilitating a smooth and efficient process.