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Indian PCC Fingerprinting in Dubai Embassy
October 06, 2025
8 min read
Harleen Kaur Bawa

Indian PCC Fingerprinting in Dubai Embassy

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Navigating the requirements for an Indian Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) while living in Dubai can be a bit confusing, especially when "fingerprinting" is mentioned. Let's clarify this upfront: for a standard Indian PCC document, you do not get your fingerprints taken at the Indian Consulate General in Dubai, nor at the BLS International centers. The police verification for the PCC is conducted in India, based on the address you provide.

However, many foreign countries (like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or the USA for immigration purposes) require Indian nationals to submit their fingerprints, often along with an Indian PCC. In this specific scenario, you will need to get your fingerprints officially taken in Dubai and then have them attested by the Consulate General of India, Dubai. This guide will walk you through both aspects to ensure you have a clear path forward.

Part 1: Obtaining Your Indian PCC (The Document Itself)

This section covers the process for getting the actual Police Clearance Certificate from India, which is required by many foreign authorities.

1. Online Application through Passport Seva Portal

The first step for any Indian PCC is to apply online.

  • Visit the official Passport Seva Portal.
  • Register if you're a new user, or log in if you already have an account.
  • Select "Apply for Police Clearance Certificate."
  • Fill out the application form accurately. Ensure all details, especially your Indian address, match your passport and other relevant documents. Discrepancies can cause delays.
  • Once completed, submit the application online. You will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN).

2. Schedule an Appointment with BLS International

In Dubai, BLS International is the outsourced service provider for passport and PCC services for the Indian Consulate.

  • After submitting your online application, visit the BLS International website for the UAE.
  • Navigate to the "Passport Services" section and specifically look for "PCC."
  • Book an appointment at your nearest BLS center in Dubai. It's crucial to select the correct service category (PCC).

3. Visit the BLS Center for Document Submission

On your appointment day, arrive at the BLS center with all necessary documents.

  • Required Documents:
    • Printout of your online PCC application form (with ARN).
    • Original Passport and a photocopy (first page, last page, visa page, and any observation pages).
    • Original UAE Residence Visa and a photocopy.
    • Original Emirates ID and a photocopy.
    • Two recent passport-size photographs (51x51mm, white background).
    • Proof of address in India (e.g., Aadhar Card, utility bill, bank passbook) matching the address on your PCC application, if different from your passport.
    • Any other documents specifically requested by BLS or the Consulate (check their website).
  • Submission Process:
    • Present your documents to the BLS staff. They will verify them.
    • Pay the PCC fee (currently AED 40) and the BLS service charge (currently AED 9). Additional fees may apply for courier services or photography if needed.
    • You will receive an acknowledgement receipt with a tracking number.

4. Police Verification in India & PCC Issuance

  • Once your application is processed by BLS and forwarded to the Consulate, your application will be sent to the relevant police station in India for verification based on the Indian address you provided. This is where the "police clearance" happens.
  • Important: No fingerprints are taken from you in Dubai for this standard PCC process.
  • The police in India will conduct their checks. This process can take anywhere from 15 to 45 working days, depending on the police district.
  • Once the police verification is complete and positive, the PCC will be issued by the Passport Office in India and sent electronically to the Consulate in Dubai.
  • You can track your application status online using the ARN on the Passport Seva Portal and the BLS website.
  • Once the PCC is ready, you will be notified to collect it from the BLS center where you submitted your application.

Part 2: Getting Your Fingerprints Taken & Attested in Dubai (For Foreign Immigration)

This is the process you'll follow if a foreign country's immigration authority requires you to submit fingerprints taken in Dubai and subsequently attested by the Indian Consulate.

1. Obtain the Official Fingerprint Form/Kit

  • Source: The immigration authority of the country you are applying to (e.g., IRCC for Canada, Department of Home Affairs for Australia). They will provide specific forms, cards (like RCMP C-216C for Canada), or instructions for fingerprint collection.
  • Crucial: Ensure you have the correct, official forms. Do not use generic fingerprint forms unless explicitly stated by the requesting authority.

2. Get Your Fingerprints Taken by an Authorized Agency in Dubai

You cannot take your own fingerprints, and the Indian Consulate does not provide this service. You need an authorized entity to do this.

  • Option A: Dubai Police Headquarters

    • Location: Dubai Police HQ on Sheikh Zayed Road.
    • Process:
      • Visit the Dubai Police HQ and go to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) or the relevant section for fingerprinting.
      • You will need to present your original Passport, UAE Residence Visa, and Emirates ID.
      • Bring the official fingerprint form/card provided by the foreign country.
      • A trained officer will take your fingerprints (ink or digital, depending on their setup).
      • There will be a fee for this service (typically around AED 220 or more, subject to change).
    • Tip: Call Dubai Police ahead of time to confirm their current procedure, timings, and fees.

  • Option B: Private Forensic/Typing Centers

    • Some private typing centers or forensic service providers in Dubai are authorized to take fingerprints. These might be more convenient or offer faster service.
    • Search for: "Fingerprinting services Dubai for immigration" or "Forensic fingerprinting Dubai."
    • Verification: Always confirm with the center if their fingerprints are accepted by the Indian Consulate for attestation and by your destination country's immigration department.
    • Documents: You'll need your original Passport, UAE Residence Visa, and Emirates ID, along with the official fingerprint form.
    • Fee: Typically similar to or slightly higher than Dubai Police.

3. Attestation at the Indian Consulate General, Dubai

Once your fingerprints are taken on the official form, you need to get them attested by the Indian Consulate. This confirms that an Indian national's fingerprints were taken in Dubai.

  • Documents Required for Attestation:
    • Original fingerprint form/card, duly filled and fingerprinted by Dubai Police or an authorized agency.
    • Original Passport and a photocopy.
    • Original UAE Residence Visa and a photocopy.
    • Original Emirates ID and a photocopy.
    • A completed "Miscellaneous Services Application Form" (available on the CGI Dubai website or at the Consulate).
    • Two recent passport-size photographs.
  • Process:
    • Visit the Consulate General of India, Dubai during their attestation service hours.
    • Submit your documents at the relevant counter.
    • Pay the attestation fee (typically AED 40-50, confirm current fees on the CGI website).
    • You will receive a receipt and instructions on when to collect the attested document.
    • Processing Time: Attestation is usually a same-day or next-day service, but it can vary.

4. Submitting Your Documents to the Requesting Authority

  • Once you have your official Indian PCC (from Part 1) and your attested fingerprints (from Part 2), you will combine them according to the instructions of the foreign immigration authority.
  • Some authorities require the PCC and fingerprints to be sent together, while others may ask for them separately. Always follow their specific guidelines.

Important Tips & Considerations

  • Check Specific Requirements: Always, always double-check the exact requirements of the country you are applying to. They might have specific instructions regarding the type of fingerprinting (ink vs. digital), the form, and whether attestation is needed.
  • Call Ahead: Before visiting Dubai Police or any private center for fingerprinting, call them to confirm their procedures, required documents, timings, and fees.
  • Accuracy is Key: Ensure all information on your PCC application and fingerprint forms matches your passport exactly. Mismatches can lead to rejection and significant delays.
  • Keep Copies: Make photocopies of all documents submitted, including the final attested fingerprint form and your PCC.
  • Be Patient: The entire process, especially with police verification in India, can take time. Plan accordingly and apply well in advance of any deadlines.
  • Fees: All fees mentioned are approximate and subject to change. Always verify the latest fees on the official BLS International and Consulate General of India, Dubai websites.

By understanding these two distinct processes, you can navigate the requirements for your Indian PCC and fingerprint attestation in Dubai efficiently and with confidence.

Harleen Kaur Bawa

About Harleen Kaur Bawa

Harleen Kaur Bawa is a licensed immigration attorney specializing in Canadian immigration and Indian services. With extensive experience in family sponsorship, Express Entry, refugee claims, and OCI services, she has successfully helped hundreds of clients navigate complex immigration processes.

Harleen holds degrees from York University - Osgoode Hall Law School and the University of Toronto, and is certified by the Law Society of Ontario and the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council. She is committed to providing personalized, professional legal services to help clients achieve their immigration goals.

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