The Vaccination Deadline for Umrah pilgrims at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport has been extended to September 25. The decision gives authorities more time to prepare the new digital verification system.
The original Vaccination Deadline was September 14. Airport officials requested more time due to concerns about the readiness of the new system.
Jinnah International Airport management had asked Border Health Services to delay the mandatory rollout until at least October 1. Officials said better coordination was needed before the system could operate smoothly.
Dr Syed Murtaza Shah Bukhari is the focal person for Border Health Services Pakistan. He confirmed that the deadline has been extended. He also said manual vaccination certificates will remain valid until September 25.
The extension is linked to the planned introduction of digital vaccination certificates. Under the new system, vaccination records will be connected with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
This connection will allow officials to verify vaccination records electronically. It is expected to reduce manual checks and improve the verification process for international travellers.
Authorities have clarified that the change does not introduce new vaccination requirements. The existing vaccination rules will continue to apply to travellers.
These requirements can vary based on several factors. They include the traveller’s country of origin, destination, travel route and category.
The decision followed concerns raised by Jinnah International Airport management. Officials warned that an immediate rollout could create operational challenges for passengers.
In a recent letter to the Airport Health Officer, Acting Chief Operating Officer Muhammad Qasim highlighted the need for further preparation. He also called for advance notice and stronger coordination between relevant agencies.
The additional time is expected to help authorities improve the process. It should also make the system easier for passengers using the airport.
Another challenge is the limited number of facilities available at the airport. Jinnah International Airport currently has only one dispensary that can issue digital vaccination cards.
Officials are working to ensure the facility can manage passenger demand. They want to avoid delays when the digital system becomes mandatory.
Karachi is expected to become the first airport in Pakistan to introduce the integrated digital vaccination certification system. The system will initially be implemented at Jinnah International Airport.
After the Karachi rollout is established, Border Health Services plans to expand the system. Other international airports and border entry and exit points will eventually be included.
For Umrah pilgrims travelling from Karachi, the extension provides additional time to complete the required process. Travellers can continue using manual vaccination certificates until September 25.
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The Vaccination Deadline extension is aimed at ensuring a smoother transition. Authorities are expected to use the additional time for coordination and system preparation.
