India has announced its Haj Policy 2027 and opened applications for prospective pilgrims, becoming one of the first major sending countries to finalise its roadmap for the next pilgrimage season. The Ministry of Minority Affairs released the policy on June 22, 2026, with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju confirming that the Haj Committee of India would begin inviting applications the same day.
The early announcement reflects a wider shift this year. Saudi Arabia has compressed its preparation timeline for Hajj 2027, and sending nations are moving quickly to meet the Kingdom's deadlines. India's decision to open applications immediately signals an emphasis on timely planning.
How to Apply and the Quota Split
Prospective pilgrims can apply online through the Haj Committee of India portal at hajcommittee.gov.in or through the Haj Suvidha App. According to the Ministry, the dual channels are intended to make the process simpler and more accessible, particularly for first-time and elderly applicants.
The distribution of seats between the Haj Committee of India and private operators is expected to remain at the established 70:30 ratio. This translates to 122,518 seats for the Haj Committee of India and 52,507 seats for the private sector. India's total quota stood at 175,025 last year, and the government has said it will press Saudi authorities to increase the allocation.
The policy follows a Haj Review Meeting chaired by the Union Minister on June 18, 2026, at which officials assessed the conduct of Haj 2026 and finalised the plan for 2027. The Ministry noted that opening applications alongside the policy release underscores its focus on adhering to the timelines set by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Key Changes for 2027
Several adjustments aim to improve the pilgrim experience. The State Haj Inspector ratio has been strengthened from one inspector for every 150 pilgrims to one for every 135, increasing on-ground support during the journey.
To manage the long waiting list fairly, preference will be given to the top 20 per cent of the final waitlisted applicants from Haj 2026. The Short Haj Package, a roughly 20-day option introduced last year, is being retained after an encouraging first-year response. Kolkata has been added as an extra embarkation point in response to strong demand from the region.
The policy also tightens medical screening. Checks have been aligned with Saudi medical guidelines, with strengthened procedures to ensure that individuals with serious chronic conditions are not cleared to travel. The measure is framed around the health and safety of pilgrims during the physically demanding rites.
India also reported that its Haj Mission received two Labbaytum Awards from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in the Best Haj Coordination and Communication category for Haj 2026, a recognition it received for the first time.
A Push Toward Technology
The Ministry outlined a set of artificial intelligence measures planned for phased rollout. These include AI-assisted verification of applications and documents, demand modelling for flight allocation across embarkation points, and real-time grievance tracking.
A central element is a conversational AI assistant designed to offer round-the-clock help in Hindi, Urdu and major regional languages. The tool is intended to support pilgrims from the application stage through to questions on payments, flights, accommodation and baggage, as well as raising grievances. Officials say it should reduce form errors, lessen dependence on intermediaries and make accurate information available to those performing Hajj for the first time. Integration with Saudi Arabia's Nusuk platform is also planned so that services across both systems align.
What Pilgrims Should Do Now
For Indian Muslims intending to perform Hajj in 2027, the practical steps are clear. Apply early through the official portal or the Haj Suvidha App rather than waiting, since the Kingdom's compressed timeline leaves little room for delay. Keep travel documents and identification ready, and ensure any medical conditions are reviewed honestly in advance given the stricter screening.
Applicants are advised to rely only on the official Haj Committee channels and to be cautious of unofficial agents promising guaranteed seats. Those on the existing waiting list should confirm their status, particularly applicants in the top tier of the 2026 waitlist who now receive preference. As always, prospective pilgrims should begin physical and spiritual preparation early, since Hajj remains a demanding journey best undertaken in good health.