Hajj 2026: PAOG sets February 16 as final deadline for passport submission

The Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has announced Monday, February 16, 2026, as the absolute deadline for submission of passports by all prospective Hajj pilgrims.

In a statement issued on February 12, Communications Director Alhaji Mohammed Amin Lamptey Hussein confirmed that the directive applies to all fully paid applicants—including those who paid through agents, directly to the PAOG secretariat, or are being processed under special arrangements.

The office emphasised that passports must reach the PAOG Secretariat no later than the cut-off date to facilitate timely visa processing by Saudi Arabian authorities.

Strict Compliance Warning

PAOG cautioned that failure to meet the deadline will result in automatic disqualification from participating in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.

According to the office, the deadline was communicated directly by Saudi authorities as part of a fast-track visa processing schedule that must be strictly observed.

Urgent Passport Assistance

To assist pilgrims racing against time, PAOG said it is collaborating with the Passport Office to expedite passport acquisition for applicants requiring urgent assistance.

The office urged all affected pilgrims to act immediately, stressing that the directive applies without exception.

While expressing regret over the short notice, PAOG appealed to stakeholders for full cooperation to ensure a smooth and timely visa submission process.