Haj 2026 applications now open for Indian pilgrims

For all those who aspire to perform Haj in 2026, here’s some heartwarming news. The Haj Committee of India, operating under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, has officially announced the opening of the application process for Haj 2026.

Haj is not just a journey but a profound spiritual experience, a sacred and cherished obligation for the Muslim community. This announcement paves the way for thousands of Indian Muslims to fulfill this deeply meaningful act of faith, with guidance and facilitation provided by the Government of India.

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From July 7, 2025, pilgrims who wish to apply for Haj 2026 can now submit their forms online. The application process is fully digital to make it easier and more convenient for everyone. Applicants can visit the official Haj portal at https://hajcommittee.gov.in. They can also use the mobile app “HAJ SUVIDHA”, which is available for both Android and iOS smartphones.

The deadline to apply for Haj 2026 is July 31, 2025, by 11:59 pm. The Haj Committee has clearly stated that no applications will be accepted after this date, so applicants are advised to complete the process well in advance to avoid last‑minute problems.

“All intending pilgrims for Haj 2026 can now apply at http://hajcommittee.gov.in or through the HajSuvidhaApp. Haj Committee of India has opened the application window for pilgrims till 31st July 2025. Kindly read the guidelines & undertakings carefully before submitting your application,” said the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

Before submitting the application, it is very important that all applicants carefully read the guidelines and undertakings provided on the website or app. These documents explain the rules, eligibility, and important conditions that every pilgrim must agree to.

One of the most important requirements is that every applicant must have a machine‑readable Indian International Passport. The passport must be issued on or before the last date of the application (July 31, 2025) and must be valid at least until December 31, 2026. This is a mandatory rule, and applications without a valid passport will not be considered.

The Haj Committee also urged applicants to think carefully before applying. Performing Haj is a big responsibility and requires proper preparation both physically and financially. The committee noted that cancellations are allowed only in very serious situations, such as death or a grave medical emergency. Other cancellations may attract penalties and could lead to the loss of money already paid. Therefore, applicants should be fully committed before submitting their forms.

A few days before the announcement, Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs of India, posted: “Attended the Haj Review Meeting for Haj 2025 review & Haj 2026 preparations at New Delhi. Over the years, India’s Haj operations have undergone a major transformation, centered around the comfort, dignity & safety of every Indian pilgrim. With reforms like the companion policy for elderly pilgrims, competitive airfare & strengthened medical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, Haj 2025 became safer, smarter & more accessible. Our reform journey continues, towards a seamless, secure & spiritually fulfilling Haj 2026.”

This announcement is an important moment for the Muslim community in India, as it gives them another chance to undertake one of the five pillars of Islam the journey to the holy city of Makkah for Haj. The Government of India, through the Haj Committee, continues to facilitate this spiritual journey by providing support and clear guidance to all intending pilgrims.

For complete details about how to apply, eligibility criteria, fees, and other important information, pilgrims are advised to visit the official website: https://hajcommittee.gov.in.

The Haj Committee wishes all applicants a smooth and successful process as they take the first step toward this spiritually fulfilling journey. Following the announcement, now many will visit the portals to apply for visas to perform Haj 2026.