A Comprehensive Guide to Surrendering Your Indian Passport in Abu Dhabi

So, you've acquired foreign citizenship and now you're wondering about the next step: surrendering your Indian passport. It's a common situation for many Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in Abu Dhabi, and while it might seem like a daunting bureaucratic task, I promise you, it's quite straightforward once you know the ropes. Think of this as getting a key piece of your new life's puzzle in order.

Here's the thing you need to know upfront: surrendering your Indian passport is a mandatory legal requirement once you've become a citizen of another country. India doesn't allow dual citizenship, so holding onto your Indian passport after acquiring, say, a UAE passport, isn't permissible. The good news is, the process in Abu Dhabi is well-defined, and with a little preparation, you can get it done without too much fuss.

The whole point of this exercise is to obtain a "Surrender Certificate." This document is absolutely crucial, especially if you plan to apply for an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card later on, which allows you lifelong visa-free travel to India and other benefits. So, let's get you set up for success.

---

Where to Go and What to Expect

In Abu Dhabi, the surrender process for Indian passports is handled by BLS International, the outsourced service provider for the Embassy of India. They're the go-to place for all passport, visa, and consular services.

The process typically involves an online application followed by a visit to a BLS center. What I really wish someone had told me is to double-check every single document before I even think about leaving my house. A missing photocopy or an incorrectly filled form can mean another trip, and trust me, you want to avoid that.

---

Getting Your Documents in Order: The Absolute Essentials

This is where most people get tripped up, so pay close attention. Having all your documents ready and in the correct order will make your visit to BLS incredibly smooth.

Here’s a checklist of what you'll generally need:

• Your Original Indian Passport: This is the passport you are surrendering. It needs to be the most recent one you held.
• A Photocopy of Your Indian Passport: Make sure to copy the first page (with your photo and details) and the last page (with your address). If there are any observation pages or pages with relevant visas, copy those too.
• Proof of Foreign Citizenship: This is paramount.
  • If you've obtained a UAE Passport, you'll need the original UAE passport and a photocopy of the bio-data page.
  • If you've obtained citizenship of another country (e.g., Canada, UK), you'll need the original foreign passport and a photocopy of its bio-data page, along with your Naturalisation Certificate (original and photocopy).
• Application Form: You'll need to fill out the "Declaration for Surrender of Indian Passport" form online on the BLS International website. Once filled, print it out, and sign it where required.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Usually two recent photographs (2x2 inches, white background). Make sure they meet the official specifications – no glasses, clear face, etc. It's always a good idea to have a couple extra, just in case.
• Proof of Address in UAE: A copy of your Emirates ID, utility bill (DEWA, SEWA, ADDC), or a tenancy contract usually works. This confirms your residency in Abu Dhabi.
• Fees: There will be a fee for the surrender certificate. It's best to check the current fee structure on the BLS website before your visit, as these can change. You'll usually pay at the BLS center itself.

---

Insider Tip: Always carry the originals of all documents you're submitting copies of. Even if they only ask for copies, they often need to verify against the original. It saves you a lot of hassle.

---

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Let's break down the actual steps you'll take to get this done:

1. Online Form Filling: Head over to the BLS International website for the UAE. Navigate to the "Passport Services" section and look for "Surrender of Indian Passport." You'll find a link to the online application form. Fill it out meticulously. Take your time, ensure all details match your passport exactly.
2. Printing and Signing: Once you've completed the online form, print it out. Make sure all pages are printed clearly. Sign the form in the designated areas.
3. Gather Your Documents: Refer to the checklist above and organize all your original documents and their respective photocopies. It’s helpful to put them in a clear folder.
4. Book an Appointment: While some centers might allow walk-ins, it's always, always better to book an appointment through the BLS website. This reduces your waiting time significantly and ensures you're seen. Select the Abu Dhabi center.
5. Visit the BLS Center: On your appointment day, arrive a little early with all your documents. You'll likely go through a security check, then proceed to the counter. The staff will review your documents. If everything is in order, they’ll accept your application.
6. Pay the Fees: You'll be directed to the payment counter to pay the surrender certificate fee. Keep the receipt safe!
7. Collection: After your application is processed, you'll receive a receipt with a tracking number. You can use this to check the status of your application online. Once your Surrender Certificate is ready (and your old Indian passport, which will be cancelled and returned to you), you'll be notified for collection.

---

What Happens Next and Important Considerations

Once you've submitted your application, the processing time can vary, but generally, it takes about 2-4 weeks. Sometimes it's quicker, sometimes a bit longer.

When you collect your documents, you'll receive:

• Your Surrender Certificate: This is the most important document you're getting out of this process. Guard it carefully! You'll need it for your OCI application.
• Your Cancelled Indian Passport: Your old Indian passport will be returned to you, but it will have a clear "Cancelled" stamp, rendering it invalid for travel.

---

Critical Warning: Once you've acquired foreign citizenship, it's illegal to travel on your Indian passport. Even if it's still valid, it's no longer legally yours to use for international travel. Make sure you use your new foreign passport for all travel once you have it.

---

Final Thoughts

Surrendering your Indian passport in Abu Dhabi is a necessary administrative step that opens the door to other possibilities, especially if you're planning on applying for an OCI card. Don't procrastinate on this. Gather your documents, follow the steps, and you'll have that Surrender Certificate in your hand before you know it. It's a key part of embracing your new citizenship fully while maintaining your connection to India. Good luck!