Pre-registration of the devotees who are willing to perform next hajj is all set to start on February 23 under a new system, sources conceded confirms.

The issue had been decided at an inter-ministerial meeting on February 10 with acting secretary Md Abdul Jalil of the minister of religion affairs in the chair.

Religion minister Matiur Rahman is expected to disclose details after his return from Saudi Arabia soon.

A delegation led by the minister is now staying there on an official-visit.

Earlier on January 11, the cabinet approved the draft of the National Hajj and Umrah Policy 2016, and Hajj Package 2016.

According to the proposed policy, a pre-registration will be required before the registration phase for hajj start.

Pilgrims will be required to pay Tk 360,000 each for performing hajj under government management and is Tk 304,903 for performing hajj without any sacrificial animal.

The next hajj will be held on September 12 this year upon moon sighting.