Haj Committee of India removes mandatory passport submission rule for pilgrims

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In a major relief for Haj pilgrims, the Haj Committee of India has abolished the mandatory requirement of depositing passports in advance. Following this decision, the Uttar Pradesh State Haj Committee has issued fresh guidelines to simplify the travel process.

Passengers will keep their passports

According to instructions issued by State Haj Committee Secretary S.P. Tiwari, pilgrims will now retain their original passports with them. They will be required to carry the passport during flight booking and present it at the departure point to receive other travel documents.

Important passport conditions

The committee has clarified that passports must remain valid until December 31, 2026. The document should not be damaged or unclear, and all details—including name and photograph—must match the application form. Any discrepancies must be reported in time.

Flight booking and reporting rules

Flight bookings will be done through the Haj Committee of India’s official portal. Pilgrims must keep the booking receipt सुरक्षित and submit a signed copy at the departure point.

The committee has also issued reporting guidelines:

Pilgrims without online booking must report 48 hours in advance

Those with online booking must reach at least 24 hours prior along with co-passengers

Checklist of required documents

A list of mandatory documents has also been released, including original passport, medical fitness and vaccination certificates, bank receipt, signed flight booking copy and other essential papers.

Pilgrims will receive their Haj kit—containing a smart card, ID card, visa and related documents—at the departure point itself.

Move aimed at easing travel

The committee stated that the revised rules are intended to make the Haj journey smoother, safer and more organized, ensuring that pilgrims do not face unnecessary inconvenience.