2026 Hajj: Visa Applications to Open Feb. 8, Close March 20
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that visa applications for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage will officially open on February 8, with March 20 fixed as the final, non-extendable deadline.
The Ministry said the application process will be conducted exclusively through the Nusuk-Masar platform, which remains the only authorized digital channel for international pilgrims to book Hajj packages and secure entry visas.
Ahead of the application window, intending pilgrims under government and private initiatives are required to complete all mandatory medical examinations and vaccinations at approved government health facilities.
Stressing that only applicants issued an official fitness certificate will be eligible to proceed with visa processing.
In addition to health clearance, pilgrims must possess a valid international passport with a minimum validity extending to December 31, 2026. Applications that fail to meet these requirements will not be considered.
The ministry emphasized that the March 20 deadline is final and aimed at enabling early coordination of accommodation, transportation, and crowd-management arrangements ahead of the Hajj season.
The Saudi authorities urged pilgrims and Hajj operators to adhere strictly to the timeline and guidelines to avoid last-minute complications, reiterating its commitment to efficient planning and smooth operations for the 2026 pilgrimage.
