Adding Your Spouse's Name to an Indian Passport in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding your spouse's name to your Indian passport in Dubai is a common request, and thankfully, it's a straightforward process once you know the steps. Essentially, you'll be applying for a "re-issue" of your passport to incorporate this change in your personal particulars. Think of it as updating your existing passport rather than getting a brand new one from scratch.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering documents to submitting your application, ensuring you're well-prepared for a smooth experience.

Understanding the Process: Why and How

You'll need to apply for a "Re-issue of Passport" service, specifically selecting the option for "Change in existing personal particulars" and then "Spouse name." This isn't just a simple stamp – you'll receive an entirely new passport booklet with your spouse's name printed on the particulars page.

The entire process in Dubai is facilitated through BLS International Services, the official outsourced agency for passport, visa, and consular services for the Embassy of India in the UAE.

Essential Prerequisites: What You'll Need Before You Start

Before you even think about filling out forms, gather these crucial documents. Having them ready and correctly attested will save you a lot of hassle.

• Your Current Indian Passport: The original and a clear photocopy of the first two and last two pages, including any observation pages.
• Valid UAE Residence Visa: Original and a clear photocopy.
• Emirates ID: Original and a clear photocopy.
• Original Marriage Certificate: This is paramount.
  • If issued in India: It must be attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. If it's not attested, you'll need to get this done first.
  • If issued in the UAE: It must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) of the UAE.
• Spouse's Passport: A clear photocopy of the first two and last two pages.
• Proof of Address in the UAE: (e.g., Tenancy contract, utility bill) - This is often requested, so it's good to have on hand.
• Photographs:
  • Two recent passport-size photographs (51mm x 51mm) with white background. Ensure they meet Indian passport photo specifications (no shadows, neutral expression, clear face, ears visible).

Practical Tip: Always carry originals of all documents for verification, even if only photocopies are submitted. They will be checked at the BLS counter.

The Step-by-Step Application Process

Here’s a breakdown of how to get this done, from online application to collecting your new passport.

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

1. Visit the Official Passport Seva Website: Navigate to the Passport Seva at Indian Missions and Posts portal. For applicants residing outside India, this is the correct portal.
2. Register and Login: If you're a new user, register an account. If you already have one, log in.
3. Select "Apply for Re-issue of Passport":
   • Choose "Change in existing personal particulars."
   • Then, select "Spouse Name."
4. Fill Out the Form Accurately: This is where attention to detail is crucial.
   • Ensure all personal details match your current passport exactly, except for the new spouse name addition.
   • Enter your spouse's full name precisely as it appears on their passport/ID.
   • Double-check every field before submitting.
5. Print the Application Form: Once submitted, print out the application form. You'll need to sign it.

Caution: Any discrepancies between the online form and your supporting documents can lead to delays or rejection.

Step 2: Book an Appointment with BLS International

After completing the online application, you need to book an appointment to submit your documents at a BLS International center.

1. Visit the BLS International UAE Website: Go to their official website and navigate to the "Passport Services" section.
2. Book Your Slot: Select your preferred BLS center location (e.g., Dubai, Sharjah) and book an appointment slot.
3. Print Appointment Confirmation: You'll receive a confirmation, which you need to print and bring with you.

Practical Tip: Appointment slots can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Book as soon as you've completed your online application.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents for Submission

Organize all your documents meticulously to avoid any last-minute rush or missing items.

• Printed Online Application Form: Duly signed.
• Two Passport-Size Photographs: Meeting specifications.
• Original Passport & Photocopies: As listed in prerequisites.
• Original UAE Visa & Photocopy:
• Original Emirates ID & Photocopy:
• Original Attested Marriage Certificate & Photocopy:
• Spouse's Passport Photocopy:
• Proof of Address (if applicable):
• Self-Attestation: You might need to self-attest photocopies by signing them. BLS staff can guide you on this if unsure.

Important: It's a good idea to arrange your documents in the order they are listed on the BLS checklist for passport services. This makes the verification process quicker.

Step 4: Visit the BLS International Center for Submission

On your appointment day:

1. Arrive Early: Give yourself ample time for security checks and queuing.
2. Submit Documents: Present your documents at the counter. The BLS staff will review them thoroughly.
3. Pay the Fees: You'll pay the applicable passport re-issue fees, plus BLS service charges and any optional courier fees.
   • The fee for a standard 36-page passport re-issue is typically around AED 285.
   • The BLS service charge is around AED 9.
   • Optional courier charges for door-step delivery of your new passport are extra (e.g., AED 15-20).
   • Payment is usually by cash or card.
4. Receive Acknowledgment Receipt: Once your application is accepted and fees paid, you'll receive an acknowledgment receipt with a tracking number. Keep this safe!

Step 5: Track Your Application Status

You can track the status of your application using the tracking number provided on your acknowledgment receipt.

• BLS International Website: Use their "Track Your Application" service.
• Passport Seva Website: You can also track it on the Indian Passport Seva portal where you initially applied.

Realistic Expectation: Processing times can vary. Typically, a standard re-issue takes 7-10 working days if all documents are in order and no police verification is required. If police verification is initiated in India, it can take longer, sometimes up to 3-4 weeks or more.

Step 6: Collect Your New Passport

Once your passport status shows "Passport has been dispatched" or "Ready for collection":

• If you opted for courier delivery: Your new passport will be delivered to your registered address.
• If you opted for self-collection: You'll need to visit the BLS center where you submitted your application, bringing your original acknowledgment receipt and Emirates ID for verification.

Common Questions and Practical Tips

What if my marriage certificate is not attested?

This is a common hurdle. You must get it attested before applying.

• For Indian marriage certificates: Contact agents who facilitate MEA attestation in India, or someone you know in India can help.
• For UAE marriage certificates: Visit a MOFAIC Customer Happiness Centre in the UAE, or use their online service for attestation.

Do I need my spouse to be present during the application?

No, your spouse does not need to be physically present at the BLS center during your application submission.

What if my spouse's name is misspelled on their passport/ID?

Ensure you enter your spouse's name exactly as it appears on their official documents. If there's a typo on their official documents, they might need to correct their own documents first.

Can I apply for faster processing?

Tatkal (urgent) service is generally available for re-issue of passports, but it might have stricter requirements and higher fees. Check the BLS website for Tatkal eligibility and specific documentation needed for spouse name addition.

What if I need to travel urgently and my passport is with BLS?

It's strongly advised not to plan any international travel during the passport application process, as you will not have your passport. If an emergency arises, contact BLS International immediately, but there's no guarantee of early retrieval.

What about my old passport?

Your old passport will be canceled and returned to you along with your new passport. It will have a "Cancelled" stamp, but any valid visas in it will generally remain valid.

Realistic Expectations

The process is generally smooth, but patience is key. Double-check everything, from the online form to the physical documents. Delays usually occur due to:

• Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
• Missing attestations.
• Police verification in India taking longer than expected.

By following this guide carefully, you'll be well on your way to adding your spouse's name to your Indian passport in Dubai with minimal fuss. Good luck!