Getting Your Newborn's First Indian Passport in UAE: A Practical Guide

Navigating the paperwork for a newborn can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves international documents like your baby's first Indian passport while you're living in the UAE. But take a deep breath; it's a very common process, and with the right information, you can get it done smoothly. This guide will walk you through each step, from prerequisites to picking up the passport, just like a friend who's been there before.

Before You Start: Essential Prerequisites

Before you even think about applying for the passport, there are a couple of crucial steps you must complete. These lay the groundwork for the entire application.

1. Obtain Your Baby's UAE Birth Certificate: Your first stop after the hospital is to register your baby's birth with the UAE authorities. The hospital will provide a birth notification, which you then use to apply for the official UAE Birth Certificate from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) or DHA/HAAD, depending on your emirate. This certificate is vital for everything else.

2. Register Your Baby's Birth with the Indian Consulate/Embassy: Once you have the UAE Birth Certificate, you need to register your baby's birth with the relevant Indian Mission in the UAE. This is typically done at the Consulate General of India (CGI), Dubai (for Dubai and Northern Emirates) or the Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi (for Abu Dhabi and Al Ain). Upon successful registration, they will issue an Indian Birth Certificate and an Attested UAE Birth Certificate. This Indian Birth Certificate is what you'll use for the passport application.

   • Tip: Check the specific requirements and appointment booking procedures for birth registration on the respective consulate/embassy website. This usually involves filling out an online form, submitting documents, and paying a fee.

Documents You'll Need: Get Them Ready

Gathering all your documents beforehand is the most critical part. Don't rush this; incomplete applications are the biggest delay. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you'll typically need – prepare originals and at least two sets of photocopies for everything.

• Baby's Indian Birth Certificate: Issued by the Indian Consulate/Embassy in UAE after birth registration.
• Baby's Attested UAE Birth Certificate: The original UAE Birth Certificate attested by the Indian Consulate/Embassy.
• Parents' Original Indian Passports: Both mother's and father's passports, along with copies of the first page (with photo), last page (address), and observation page (if any).
• Parents' Original UAE Residence Visas: Copies of both parents' valid UAE residence visas. Ensure they are not expired or close to expiry.
• Original Marriage Certificate: The certificate must be attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India and the Indian Embassy/Consulate in the UAE. If issued in the UAE, it needs attestation from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and then the Indian Embassy/Consulate.
• Photographs of the Baby:
  • 2 recent passport-size photographs (2x2 inches or 51x51 mm).
  • White background, matte finish.
  • Face must be clearly visible, eyes open (if possible), no shadows.
  • No head covering, unless for religious reasons (and face still visible).
  • Tip: Getting a newborn to cooperate for a passport photo can be tricky. Lay them on a white sheet, take a photo from directly above, and ensure no shadows fall on their face. You might need multiple attempts!
• Annexure D or C (as applicable):
  • Annexure D: This is a self-declaration by both parents stating they are Indian citizens and have not renounced Indian citizenship. This is the most common form for a newborn's first passport.
  • Annexure C: This is an indemnity bond required if one parent is not an Indian citizen, or if parents are divorced/separated, or if there are other specific circumstances.
  • Crucial: Download the correct Annexure form from the BLS International website or Passport Seva Portal, fill it out accurately, and ensure both parents sign it. Some cases might require it to be notarized.
• Proof of Address (in India): A copy of an Indian address proof (e.g., Aadhaar card, utility bill, bank statement) for one of the parents.
• Self-Attested Copies: Ensure all photocopies are self-attested by the parents (signed by the parent on each copy).

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Once your documents are ready, you're set to begin the actual passport application. The process for Indian passport services in the UAE is handled by BLS International on behalf of the Indian Embassy/Consulate.

Step 1: Fill Out the Online Application Form

1. Go to the official Passport Seva Portal.
2. Click on "Register" if you're a new user, or "Existing User Login" if you already have an account.
3. Choose "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport."
4. Select "Fresh Passport" for your newborn.
5. Fill in all details accurately. Pay extra attention to names, dates of birth, and parent details.
   • Important: For a newborn, the baby won't have a signature. The application will ask for a signature or thumb impression. For infants, a left thumb impression is usually required in the signature box. Both parents will also need to sign in designated areas.
6. Once completed, save and print the application form. You will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN).

Step 2: Book an Appointment with BLS International

1. Visit the BLS International website.
2. Navigate to the "Passport Services" section and find the link for "Appointment Booking."
3. Select your preferred BLS center (Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Umm Al Quwain).
4. Choose a convenient date and time slot.
5. You'll need your ARN from the Passport Seva Portal to book the appointment.
6. Print the appointment confirmation slip.

Step 3: Visit the BLS International Center

This is where you submit your physical documents. Both parents and the newborn must be present.

1. Arrive on time: Be at the BLS center at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
2. Bring everything: Carry all original documents, their photocopies (two sets are always safer), the printed online application form, and the BLS appointment confirmation.
3. Document Verification: A BLS representative will check your documents. They might ask for additional copies or clarifications. Be polite and patient.
4. Submission and Fees: Once documents are verified, you'll submit them and pay the applicable fees. The fees typically include the passport fee, BLS service charge, and a few optional services (like SMS tracking).
   • Normal Service: This is the standard application.
   • Tatkal Service: An expedited service available for urgent cases, but it costs significantly more. Check BLS for eligibility and specific requirements for newborns under Tatkal.
5. Acknowledgement Receipt: You will receive an acknowledgement receipt with a file number. Keep this safe; you'll need it to track your application.

Step 4: Police Verification (if applicable)

For a newborn's first passport, police verification might be initiated for the Indian address provided. This usually happens after the application is processed by the Embassy/Consulate. Parents don't need to do anything actively at this stage, but be aware that it's part of the process for the Indian authorities.

Step 5: Track Your Application

You can track the status of your application using the File Number from your BLS acknowledgement receipt on:

• The Passport Seva Portal
• The BLS International website

Status updates will typically show stages like "Application Submitted," "Under Review," "Police Verification Initiated," "Passport Printed," and "Passport Dispatched."

Step 6: Passport Collection

1. Once the status shows "Passport Dispatched" or "Ready for Collection" at the BLS center, you can go to collect it.
2. Bring the original acknowledgement receipt and your original passport (the parent who submitted the application) for identification.
3. Verify all details on the new passport (name, date of birth, parents' names, photo) immediately upon collection. If there are any discrepancies, report them at the counter.

Practical Tips and Potential Pitfalls

• Start Early: Don't wait until the last minute. The entire process, from birth registration to passport collection, can take 4-8 weeks or even longer, especially if there are delays in police verification or during peak seasons.
• Double-Check Everything: Before heading to BLS, go through your checklist of documents one final time. A missing document means another trip.
• Attestation is Key: Ensure your marriage certificate and the UAE birth certificate are properly attested before applying for the passport. This is a common hurdle.
• Photo Perfection: Passport photo rules are strict. If your baby's photo isn't up to standard, it will be rejected. Many photo studios in the UAE are familiar with Indian passport photo requirements.
• Parental Presence: Both parents and the newborn need to be present at the BLS center for submission. No exceptions.
• Keep Copies: Always keep copies of all submitted documents and receipts for your records.
• Check BLS Website for Updates: Requirements, fees, and procedures can change. Always refer to the official BLS International website and the respective Indian Mission's website for the most current information.
• Annexure D/C: This form is crucial. Make sure you download the correct version and fill it out completely and accurately. If in doubt, refer to the sample forms or seek clarification from BLS.

Common Questions Answered

• Can one parent apply if the other is not in the UAE? Generally, both parents' presence is mandatory. In exceptional cases (e.g., one parent deceased, divorced with sole custody), specific court orders or death certificates are required, and Annexure C might be needed. Contact BLS for precise guidance in such situations.
• What if I don't have an Indian address proof? You will still need to provide one. If you only have a temporary address, you might need to use a relative's address in India with their consent and proof of their residence.
• How long is the passport valid for? A newborn's first Indian passport is typically valid for 5 years or until the child turns 18, whichever comes first.

Wrapping Up

Getting your newborn's first Indian passport in the UAE might seem like a lot of steps, but each one is manageable. By being prepared, organized, and patient, you'll have that little blue book in your hands before you know it. Good luck, and congratulations on your new arrival!