How to Report and Reissue a Lost Indian Passport in Dubai

Losing your passport can feel like a nightmare, especially when you're living abroad. But take a deep breath – it's a solvable problem. While you don't "cancel" a lost passport in isolation, the process of reporting it lost and applying for a new one automatically invalidates your old document in the system. This guide will walk you through exactly what you need to do to navigate this situation in Dubai, making sure you get back on track with minimal fuss.

Immediate Steps: Don't Delay!

Time is of the essence when your passport goes missing. The sooner you act, the better.

1. Report to the Police (Within 24 Hours): This is the very first and most crucial step. Head to the nearest Dubai Police station or use their online portal to report the loss. You will need to obtain an official Police Report (Lost Article Certificate). This document is absolutely essential for your passport reissue application.
   • Why it matters: It's proof that you've officially reported the loss and helps prevent any misuse of your old passport.
2. Inform the Consulate General of India, Dubai: While the primary application happens through their service provider, it's good practice to be aware of the Consulate General of India, Dubai as the ultimate authority.
3. Prepare for Reissue Application: Understand that "cancelling" your lost passport is intrinsically linked to applying for a new one. The moment you report it lost and apply for a reissue, your old passport is flagged as invalid in global systems.

Documents You'll Need

Gathering these documents beforehand will significantly speed up your application process. Make sure you have both originals and photocopies of everything.

Essential Documents:

• Original Police Report (Lost Article Certificate): The official report from Dubai Police.
• Lost Passport Application Form: This is typically an online form you fill out on the Indian Passport Seva website (more on this below).
• Copy of Lost Passport: Even if it's just a faded photo on your phone, any copy of your lost passport (data pages, visa page) is extremely helpful.
• Copy of Your UAE Visa Page: Your valid residency visa in the UAE.
• Copy of Your Emirates ID: Both front and back.
• Proof of Address in UAE: A utility bill (DEWA), rent agreement, or bank statement showing your Dubai address.
• Proof of Indian Address: Aadhar card, voter ID, utility bill from India.
• Passport-sized Photographs:
  • 2 photos (sometimes 3 are requested)
  • Size: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm)
  • Background: White
  • Specs: Face must cover 70-80% of the photo, matte finish, no shadows, neutral expression, visible ears. These must adhere to ICAO standards.
• Annexure 'F' (Self-Declaration): A sworn affidavit stating the circumstances of the loss, that you haven't held any other travel document, and that you will return the old passport if found. This form is usually available on the BLS website or at their center.
• Letter from Employer (if applicable): A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer, stating your employment and that they have no objection to you applying for a new passport.
• Marriage Certificate (if applicable): If your marital status changed or needs updating.

Highly Recommended (if available):

• Copy of previous Indian visas (if any).
• Any other identity proof issued by the Indian government.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

The official outsourced agency for Indian passport services in Dubai is BLS International. All applications for passport reissue are processed through them.

Step 1: Online Application Form

1. Visit the Passport Seva Portal: Go to the official Passport Seva website.
2. Register and Log In: If you don't have an account, register as a new user.
3. Choose "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport": Select this option.
4. Fill out the Application:
   • Select "Re-issue of Passport" and "Lost Passport."
   • Carefully fill in all details. Be precise, especially with personal information and details of your lost passport. Any discrepancies can lead to delays.
   • Important: Take your time with this. Double-check every field.
5. Save and Print: Once completed, save the application and print out the filled form. You'll need to carry this physical copy.

Step 2: Book an Appointment with BLS International

1. Visit the BLS International Website: Go to the BLS International website for UAE.
2. Book an Appointment: Navigate to the "Appointment" section and book a slot for "Passport Services" at your preferred BLS center in Dubai. Appointments are mandatory.
   • Tip: Weekends and evenings tend to fill up fast. Book as soon as you have your police report and online application ready.

Step 3: Visit the BLS International Center

On the day of your appointment, ensure you arrive on time with all your original documents and their photocopies.

1. Document Verification: A BLS staff member will check your documents against the requirements. They might ask for additional copies or clarification.
2. Biometrics: Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
3. Application Submission: Submit your complete application form and supporting documents.
4. Fee Payment: Pay the applicable fees. This can usually be done via card or cash.

Step 4: Police Verification (if applicable)

For lost passports, especially if it's your first time losing one or if there are any discrepancies, the Consulate might request a police verification at your Indian address. This can add to the processing time.

Fees and Timeframes

• Fees: The fee for a lost/damaged passport reissue is generally higher than for a regular reissue. Expect it to be around AED 600-800 for a standard passport (36 pages), plus BLS service charges and ICWF (Indian Community Welfare Fund) fees. Check the BLS International website for the most current and exact fee structure.
• Processing Time:
  • Normal Category: Typically 3-6 weeks, but can extend if police verification in India is required.
  • Tatkal (Emergency) Category: If available and approved, this can expedite the process to 1-2 weeks, but it comes with a significantly higher fee and strict eligibility criteria. It's usually reserved for genuine emergencies like medical travel or death in the family.

What Happens Next?

1. Tracking: Once your application is submitted, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt. You can track the status of your application online using the reference number provided on the Passport Seva portal or the BLS website.
2. Collection: You will receive an SMS or email notification once your new passport is ready for collection. You'll need to visit the BLS center again with your original receipt and Emirates ID to collect it.

Important Considerations and FAQs

• Your UAE Visa: Your UAE residency visa is typically affixed to your old passport. When you receive your new passport, your old (lost) passport's visa is effectively "cancelled" by virtue of the old passport being invalidated. You will need to get your visa transferred to your new passport. This is a separate process handled by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai. You must do this as soon as you receive your new passport to maintain your legal residency status.
• Travel Restrictions: Until you have your new passport and your UAE visa transferred, you will not be able to travel internationally.
• Emergency Travel Certificate: In extremely urgent cases (e.g., medical emergency, death in the family), the Consulate might issue an Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC) to allow you to travel back to India. This is a one-way document. You would then apply for a new passport once you are in India. This is a rare exception and requires strong justification.
• Finding Your Old Passport Later: If you find your lost passport after applying for a new one, do not attempt to use it. It has been officially rendered invalid. You must surrender it to the Consulate General of India or BLS International immediately. Using an invalidated passport can lead to serious legal consequences.
• Importance of the Police Report: Without the official police report, your application for a lost passport reissue will likely be rejected. It's non-negotiable.

Final Advice

Losing a passport is stressful, but by following these steps diligently, you can ensure a smooth process. Do not delay any of the initial steps, especially reporting to the police. Keep multiple copies of all your documents, both physical and digital. Patience is key, as government processes can sometimes take longer than expected. You've got this!