Indian Passport Reissue in UAE for NRIs: Your Complete, Practical Guide

Hey there! If you're an Indian living in the UAE, the thought of renewing your passport might feel like a bit of a maze. But don't worry, it's a very common process, and with the right information, it's perfectly manageable. Think of this as your friendly guide to navigating the Indian passport reissue process for NRIs in the UAE. We'll cover everything you need to know, from when to apply to what documents to gather.

Let's dive right in.

When Should You Apply for a Passport Reissue?

The most common reasons to re-issue your Indian passport in the UAE are:

1. Expiry: Your passport is expiring, or has already expired. You can typically apply for a reissue within one year of its expiry date. Don't wait until the last minute, especially if you have travel plans or need it for visa renewals!
2. Exhausted Pages: You've run out of blank pages for visas and stamps.
3. Change in Particulars: You need to change your name, address, date of birth, spouse's name, or other details.
4. Damaged/Lost Passport: Your passport is damaged beyond recognition or has been lost. This has a slightly different, more involved process.
5. Minor's Passport: A minor's passport is expiring or needs changes.

For most people, it's about expiry or running out of pages.

Where to Apply: The Official Channel

In the UAE, all Indian passport services, including reissues, are outsourced to BLS International Services. You'll handle your application through one of their centers, not directly at the Indian Embassy or Consulate.

BLS International has centers in major emirates like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Your application must be submitted at the BLS center that corresponds to the Emirate where your UAE residence visa was issued. For example, if your visa is from Dubai, you must apply at a BLS center in Dubai.

Types of Passport Reissue: Normal vs. Tatkal

You generally have two options for reissuing your passport:

• Normal Service: This is the standard application process. It's cheaper but takes longer.
• Tatkal Service: This is an expedited service for urgent requirements. It's significantly more expensive but much faster. Be aware that Tatkal applications require additional scrutiny and may not be granted if the supporting documents are not in order, or if there are any discrepancies.

The Essentials: Documents You'll Need

This is arguably the most crucial part. Missing a single document or having incorrect information can lead to delays or rejection. Always carry originals and at least two sets of photocopies for everything.

Mandatory Documents for Most Reissue Cases (Expiry/Pages Exhausted):

1. Original Current Passport: Your existing Indian passport.
2. Photocopies of Current Passport:
   • First two pages (containing your photo and details).
   • Last two pages (containing family details, address, etc.).
   • Any observation pages.
3. UAE Residence Visa Page: A clear photocopy of your valid UAE residence visa page. It must be current and not expired.
4. Emirates ID: Clear photocopies of both the front and back of your valid Emirates ID.
5. Proof of Indian Address: A document showing your address in India. Common examples include:
   • Aadhaar Card
   • Voter ID Card
   • Driving License (Indian)
   • Utility Bill (electricity, water, landline phone bill) in your name (not more than 3 months old).
   • Bank Passbook (first and last page with address)
   • Self-correction: If you don't have an Indian address proof, you might need to submit an affidavit. Check the BLS website for exact requirements.
6. Passport-sized Photographs:
   • Two recent photographs.
   • Dimensions: 2x2 inches (51mm x 51mm).
   • Background: Plain white background, without shadows.
   • Face Coverage: Your face should cover 70-80% of the photo.
   • Finish: Matte finish. No glasses (unless for medical reasons and non-reflective), no head coverings unless for religious reasons and face is clearly visible. Get these done professionally.
7. Printed Online Application Form: The filled-out application form from the Passport Seva website, printed and signed.

Additional Documents for Specific Cases:

• Change of Address in India: In addition to the above, you'll need a valid proof of the new address in India (e.g., utility bill, Aadhaar, etc.).
• Change of Name: A Gazette notification confirming the name change, along with newspaper advertisements (one in India, one in UAE) announcing the change. You'll also need to fill out Annexure 'E' (Affidavit for Change in Name).
• Addition of Spouse Name: Original marriage certificate, along with a photocopy.
• Lost/Damaged Passport:
  • Police report (original and photocopy) of the lost/damaged passport.
  • An affidavit (usually Annexure 'F' for lost, Annexure 'G' for damaged) explaining the circumstances.
  • Original and photocopy of your previous passport (if available).
• Minor's Passport Reissue:
  • Original passports of both parents and photocopies.
  • Original marriage certificate of parents (if spouse name not endorsed in either parent's passport).
  • Annexure 'D' (Parental Consent Affidavit) signed by both parents. Both parents must be present, or one parent with an NOC from the absent parent and their original passport.

This list isn't exhaustive, so always check the official BLS International UAE website for the most current and detailed requirements for your specific application type before you visit.

The Step-by-Step Reissue Process

Here’s how you’ll go about getting your passport reissued:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

1. Go to the official Passport Seva website.
2. If you're a new user, click "Register Now" and create an account. If you already have an account, simply log in.
3. Click on "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport."
4. Carefully fill out all the details. Be extremely precise with names, dates, and addresses. Any discrepancy can cause issues.
5. Once done, submit the form online.
6. Take a printout of the application form. Make sure the 'Application Reference Number' (ARN) is clearly visible.

Step 2: Book Your Appointment at BLS International

1. Visit the BLS International UAE website.
2. Navigate to the "Appointment Booking" section for Passport Services.
3. Select your preferred BLS center (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) based on your visa's issuing Emirate.
4. Choose a convenient date and time for your appointment.
5. Print out the appointment confirmation.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the required documents as listed above. This means originals, and multiple sets of photocopies. Organize them neatly in a file. Ensure your photographs meet the exact specifications.

Step 4: Visit the BLS International Center

1. Arrive at the BLS center at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Punctuality is key.
2. You'll go through a security check.
3. At the counter, submit your printed online application form, original documents, and photocopies. The staff will verify them.
4. Your biometrics (fingerprints and a live photograph) will be taken at the center.
5. Pay the applicable fees (cash or card). You'll receive an acknowledgement receipt with your application reference number. Keep this receipt safe as it's vital for tracking and collection.

Step 5: Police Verification (If Applicable)

For most standard reissues without major changes, police verification might not be required in India. However, if there's a change of address, significant personal detail changes, or a lost/damaged passport, police verification might be initiated in India. Sometimes, local verification might also occur in the UAE (e.g., for lost passports). If required, you will be contacted.

Step 6: Collect Your New Passport

1. You will receive an SMS and/or email notification when your new passport is ready for collection. You can also track your application status online using the ARN on both the Passport Seva and BLS International websites.
2. Go back to the same BLS center where you applied.
3. Carry your original acknowledgement receipt and your old passport. Your old passport will be cancelled (usually by cutting a corner) and returned to you along with your new one.
4. If someone else is collecting on your behalf, they will need an authorization letter signed by you, their original ID, and your original acknowledgement receipt and old passport.

Fees and Processing Time

These are approximate figures and can change, so always confirm on the BLS website.

• Normal Service (36 pages):
  • Fees: Approximately AED 285-300 (plus BLS service charges).
  • Processing Time: Typically 15-20 working days.
• Normal Service (60 pages - Jumbo booklet):
  • Fees: Approximately AED 385-400 (plus BLS service charges).
  • Processing Time: Typically 15-20 working days.
• Tatkal Service (36 pages):
  • Fees: Approximately AED 950-1000 (plus BLS service charges).
  • Processing Time: Typically 5-7 working days (after verification, if any).
• Tatkal Service (60 pages - Jumbo booklet):
  • Fees: Approximately AED 1150-1200 (plus BLS service charges).
  • Processing Time: Typically 5-7 working days.

Important Note: The processing time starts after BLS has accepted your application and forwarded it to the Consulate/Embassy, and any necessary verifications are completed. Public holidays can also affect timelines.

Common Questions & Practical Tips

• Do I need to surrender my old passport? Yes, your old passport will be cancelled and returned to you along with your new one. It's usually invalidated by cutting a corner.
• What if my UAE visa is expiring soon? It's highly recommended to renew your passport before your UAE residence visa expires or is up for renewal. Most authorities require a passport with at least 6 months validity. A valid UAE visa is a prerequisite for a smooth passport renewal.
• Can I apply from any Emirate? No. You must apply at the BLS center corresponding to the Emirate that issued your UAE residence visa.
• What about minors? Both parents must usually be present for a minor's passport application. If one parent is absent, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and Annexure 'C' with their original passport copy are required.
• Photos: Are they really that strict? Yes, absolutely. Non-compliant photos are a frequent reason for rejection. Get them professionally clicked, emphasizing the white background and face coverage.
• Double-check everything! Before submitting, review your online form and all documents for any errors, especially spelling, dates, and addresses. A small typo can cause significant delays.
• Organize your documents: Keep originals and photocopies neatly separated. It makes the process at the BLS center much smoother.
• Track your application: Use the ARN provided on your acknowledgement receipt to track the status online via both the Passport Seva and BLS websites.
• Don't wait until the last minute: Start the process well in advance (e.g., 2-3 months before expiry) to avoid any stress or complications, especially if you have upcoming travel plans.

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

• Incorrect or incomplete forms: The most common reason for rejection.
• Mismatched details: Ensure your name, date of birth, and other details are consistent across all documents (current passport, Emirates ID, Indian address proof).
• Expired UAE visa or Emirates ID: Your UAE residency documents must be valid.
• Non-compliant photographs: As mentioned, this is a big one.
• Missing original documents: Always carry all originals, even if only photocopies are mentioned for submission.
• Not applying at the correct BLS center: Applying at a center not corresponding to your visa's issuing Emirate will lead to rejection.

Wrapping Up

Reissuing your Indian passport in the UAE is a routine administrative task. While it requires attention to detail and patience, it's far from impossible. By following these steps, preparing your documents meticulously, and being mindful of the guidelines, you'll have your new passport in hand without unnecessary hassle.

Start early, stay organized, and you'll be fine! Good luck!