Biometric passports: special issuance operation for Hajj 2026 candidates

The Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Allassane Séidou, announced on Thursday, November 20, 2025, an exceptional operation to issue ordinary biometric passports.

The measure targets people planning to take the pilgrimage to Mecca in 2026.

The initiative responds to the government’s desire to avoid large crowds, last-minute tensions and the difficulties often observed around the administrative formalities related to the Hajj.

Starting December 1, 2025, teams from the Directorate of Emigration and Immigration will be deployed in the departments to allow applicants to complete their procedures without having to travel to Cotonou.

The ministerial note specifies the teams’ visit dates, the documents to be provided and the required conditions. The goal is to ensure a clear, accessible and better organized process, so that future pilgrims can prepare their journey in a calm environment.