Indian Affidavit for Lost Passport Declaration in Dubai: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Losing your passport in a foreign country can feel like a nightmare, especially when you're an Indian national in Dubai. But take a deep breath – it's a fixable situation. This guide will walk you through the process of declaring your lost Indian passport in Dubai, focusing on the crucial affidavit, so you can get a new one without unnecessary stress.

The most important thing to do immediately after realizing your passport is lost is to report it to the Dubai Police. This is your absolute first step, and everything else hinges on it. Once reported, you'll need to prepare for applying for a re-issue of your passport, which includes submitting a mandatory affidavit.

What You'll Need: Essential Documents & Information

Before you start, gather as much as you can. Having these ready will significantly speed up the process.

• Dubai Police Lost Property Certificate: This is non-negotiable. You’ll get it after reporting your lost passport to the police.
• A copy of your Lost Passport: Even if it's just a digital photo, any record helps. Especially the first and last pages.
• Valid Emirates ID: Original and a photocopy.
• UAE Residence Visa Copy: A copy of your current visa page.
• Proof of Address in UAE: Utility bill (DEWA), rental agreement, or a letter from your employer.
• Proof of Address in India: Aadhar card, utility bill, bank statement, or driver's license showing your Indian address.
• Three Recent Passport-Size Photographs: Ensure they meet VFS Global specifications (white background, 2x2 inches, no shadows, etc.).
• Employment/Profession Proof: A letter from your employer or trade license copy if self-employed.
• Application Form: The online application for a "Re-issue of Passport" (due to "Lost Passport").
• Annexure 'F' Affidavit: This is the specific "Declaration of Lost/Damaged Passport" form. You'll fill this out and get it attested.

The Step-by-Step Process: Getting Your New Passport

This process involves several key stages, from reporting the loss to receiving your new passport.

Step 1: Report Your Lost Passport to Dubai Police

This is where it all begins. You cannot proceed without a police report.

• How to Report: You can do this at any Dubai Police station or through their smart services (website or app). Visiting a station often helps if you need immediate assistance or are unsure about the online process.
• What You'll Get: After reporting, the police will issue you a Lost Property Certificate. This document is absolutely vital, so keep it safe. There might be a small fee for this certificate.

Step 2: Obtain and Attest Annexure 'F' Affidavit

The affidavit is a formal declaration stating the circumstances of your passport loss.

• Download Annexure 'F': You can usually find this form on the Consulate General of India, Dubai website or the VFS Global website under passport forms.
• Fill It Out Accurately: Fill in all details carefully. Be honest and precise about when and where you lost your passport, and the circumstances.
• Attestation at CGI Dubai: This affidavit must be attested by the Consulate General of India in Dubai or the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi.
  • You will need to book an appointment for Miscellaneous Services at CGI Dubai through the VFS Global website.
  • Bring the filled Annexure 'F' form, your original Emirates ID, a copy of your lost passport (if available), and the Dubai Police Lost Property Certificate.
  • There is a fee for attestation. Once attested, this document becomes legally binding.

Step 3: Complete the Online Passport Application

With your police report and attested affidavit in hand, you can now apply for a new passport.

• Visit the Passport Seva Website: Go to Passport Seva and register if you haven't already.
• Select "Re-issue of Passport": Choose this option, then select "Lost/Damaged Passport" as the reason.
• Fill the Application Form: Be extremely careful and accurate with all the details. Ensure consistency with your previous passport information and your current documents.
• Pay the Fee Online: The application fee for a lost passport re-issue is typically higher than a regular renewal.
• Schedule an Appointment: Once the form is filled and paid for, you'll be prompted to schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Indian Passport Application Centre in Dubai or Northern Emirates.

Step 4: Attend Your VFS Global Appointment

This is where you submit all your documents and provide biometrics.

• Gather All Documents: Bring originals and photocopies of all the documents listed in the "What You'll Need" section, including your attested Annexure 'F' and the police report.
• Arrive On Time: Be punctual for your appointment.
• Submission and Biometrics: At VFS Global, your documents will be checked, your biometrics (fingerprints and photo) will be taken, and you'll receive an acknowledgment receipt. This receipt contains a tracking number.
• Potential Challenges: Sometimes, VFS Global might ask for additional documents or clarifications. Be prepared for this and have any supporting documents readily available.

Step 5: Track Your Application and Collect Your New Passport

Patience is key during this final stage.

• Track Online: Use the tracking number from your VFS Global receipt on the VFS Global website to monitor the status of your application.
• Processing Time: Re-issuing a lost passport can take longer than a standard renewal, often several weeks to a month or more, as additional verification might be required.
• Collection: Once processed and dispatched, you'll receive an SMS or email notification. You can then collect your new passport from the designated VFS Global centre. Bring your acknowledgment receipt and Emirates ID for collection.

Important Tips & Potential Pitfalls

• Act Quickly: The moment you realize your passport is lost, report it. Delays can complicate matters.
• Keep Copies: Always keep digital and physical copies of all your important documents, especially your passport and visa. This saves a lot of hassle.
• Be Honest: When filling out the Annexure 'F' and the application form, be completely honest about the circumstances of the loss. Any discrepancy can lead to delays or rejection.
• "Tatkal" Option: While the Tatkal (urgent) service exists for passport re-issue, it's generally not available for lost passports, especially the first time. This is because the police verification process in India is mandatory and takes time.
• No Travel Without Passport: Remember, you cannot travel internationally without a valid passport. If you need to travel to India urgently, you might explore applying for an Emergency Certificate (EC) from CGI Dubai, but this is usually only for one-way travel to India and requires special circumstances.
• Check VFS Global Website: Always refer to the official VFS Global website for the most current fees, document checklists, and application procedures, as these can change.

Common Questions Answered

• "Can I just go to India and apply for a new passport there?" No. As an Indian national residing in the UAE, you must apply for a new passport here through the Consulate General of India, Dubai (via VFS Global). Applying in India while your residence visa is in the UAE can cause significant issues.
• "What if my visa page was in the lost passport and I don't have a copy?" This makes things a bit harder, but not impossible. You'll need to contact your employer or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai to obtain a copy or proof of your valid UAE visa status.
• "How long will it really take?" Realistically, expect anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks, or even longer in some cases, especially if police verification in India is required. There's no fixed timeline, and it depends on various factors, including the efficiency of the verification process.

Realistic Expectations

Losing your passport is undoubtedly stressful and the process to get a new one can be time-consuming. It requires meticulous attention to detail and patience. Follow the steps carefully, gather all required documents, and don't hesitate to seek clarification from VFS Global or CGI Dubai if you're unsure about any step. You will get through this, and soon you'll have your new passport in hand.