Bangladesh’s Ministry of Religious Affairs announced that visa applications for the 2026 Hajj season have opened from Sunday, February 8, and will continue until March 20. The ministry’s Hajj Wing Deputy Secretary Mohammad Sofiuzzaman Bhuiyan said the schedule follows Saudi Arabia’s Hajj and Umrah Ministry’s guidelines for this year’s visa issuance. Applicants must apply through Saudi Arabia’s digital platform ‘Nusuk Masar’ within the specified period.

According to the ministry, the earlier completion of visa procedures aims to ensure better organization and safety for pilgrims. Last year, many faced difficulties obtaining the mandatory Nusuk card due to late visa processing. This year, Saudi authorities have set a strict timeline to avoid such issues and make the pilgrimage process more orderly.

All registered Bangladeshi pilgrims, including expatriates, must undergo medical examinations at any government hospital, receive vaccinations from designated centers, and obtain a fitness certificate before applying. The ministry confirmed that no pilgrim will be allowed to travel without this certificate. Hajj flights are scheduled to begin on April 18, with the pilgrimage expected on May 26, subject to moon sighting.