The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued an urgent directive to 30 major Hajj agencies to complete all visa processing for pilgrims by March 5. The letter, sent on Wednesday, instructed agencies to finalize health checks, vaccinations, and group formations for pilgrims. A total of 7,355 pilgrims under these agencies are still awaiting health examinations, with Bangladesh Overseas Services having the highest number pending at 1,306 and Ehsan Air Travels the lowest at 10.

According to the ministry, Saudi Arabia’s Hajj and Umrah Ministry requires all visa processing to be completed by March 20. Pilgrims must obtain fitness certificates and vaccinations before applying for visas. The process, including technical steps and group formation, typically takes five to ten days, though technical issues could cause delays.

The ministry also warned that offices in both Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia will close around March 20 due to Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, urging agencies to complete all procedures well in advance to avoid disruptions.