Hajj qualification

Questions and answers about Hajj and debts

A question we are asked often. Here is the ruling, and where our structure sits in relation to it.

The fatwa

Hajj and Debts

Date of reply 9 March 2000
Name of Mufti Muzammil Siddiqi
Source IslamOnline.net
Question

I am aware that people who are in debt cannot make Hajj until the debts are cleared, or they have to ask their creditors for permission. But in reality is that ever done? I know persons who will be making Hajj this year and are in serious debt.

Reply

Hajj is not obligatory for those in debt. However, if you have a long-term loan with monthly payments, only those monthly dues count as active debt. If you pay your monthly obligations and have surplus funds remaining, you may perform Hajj. Additionally, if your creditor permits you to go, you can perform Hajj. It is also permissible to engage in business during Hajj as long as it is performed with sincerity and all its rituals are completed properly.

“It is no sin on you if you seek the bounty of your Lord during pilgrimage.”
al-Baqarah 2:198
A mosque lit at dusk