Renewing Your Child's Indian Passport in UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating government processes can feel daunting, especially when it involves your child. If you're an Indian expatriate in the UAE and it's time to renew your child's passport, this guide is for you. We'll walk you through the entire process, making it as clear and straightforward as possible, just like a friend who's been through it.

The good news is that renewing an Indian passport for a child in the UAE is a well-defined process, primarily handled by BLS International, the outsourced agency for passport, visa, and consular services. The overall process is similar whether you're in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other emirate, though your specific BLS center will depend on your residency.

Why Renew Your Child's Passport?

You should consider renewing your child's passport in the following situations:

• The passport validity is less than six months. Many countries and airlines require at least six months of passport validity for travel.
• The passport has expired. While you can still renew an expired passport, it's best to do it before it lapses to avoid potential complications or additional checks.
• There's a change in details (e.g., change of address, guardian details).
• The passport pages are exhausted.
• The passport is damaged or lost. (This guide focuses on renewal; lost/damaged passports have slightly different requirements).

Essential Documents and Prerequisites

Gathering all your documents correctly is the most crucial step. Missing even one item can lead to delays or rejection. Here's what you'll typically need:

Required Documents (Originals & Photocopies)

Always carry the original documents for verification, along with two sets of clear photocopies.

• Child's Current Passport: The original old passport.
• Parents' Passports: Original passports of both parents, along with clear photocopies of the front page, last page, and valid UAE visa page.
• Child's Birth Certificate: Original and photocopy. This must be an Indian birth certificate or one attested by the Indian Embassy if born outside India.
• Parents' Marriage Certificate: Original and photocopy (required for first-time issuance or if not previously recorded).
• Child's Emirates ID: Original and photocopy.
• Parents' Emirates IDs: Original and photocopy of both parents.
• Child's UAE Visa: Original and photocopy (usually on the passport, but if it's a separate paper visa, carry that).
• Parents' UAE Visas: Original and photocopy of both parents' valid UAE visas.
• Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs of the child.
  • Crucial Photo Requirements:
    • Size: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm).
    • Background: Pure white background only.
    • Face: Full frontal view, open eyes, natural expression, no shadows.
    • No Glasses/Headwear: Unless for religious reasons, and even then, face must be clearly visible.
    • Ears: Should be visible.
• Annexure D (for Minors): This is a mandatory self-declaration form signed by both parents, affirming their consent for the child to obtain a passport. You can download it from the BLS or Passport Seva website. This must be signed by both parents in front of the BLS official.
• Application Form Printout: The online application form, printed after completion.
• Address Proof (UAE): A recent utility bill (DEWA, SEWA, ADDC) or tenancy contract in a parent's name. This confirms your current UAE address.
• Address Proof (Indian - optional but good to have): Sometimes requested, especially if you want to update your Indian address. An Aadhaar card, utility bill, or bank statement from India can suffice.

Special Circumstances

• Only One Parent Present: If one parent is not in the UAE, the parent present must provide:
  • A notarized Annexure C (or Annexure D, with specific clauses) from the absent parent, giving consent.
  • A photocopy of the absent parent's passport (front, back, and visa page).
  • If parents are divorced/separated, a court order granting custody to the applying parent will be required, along with Annexure C or D as applicable.
• Child's Signature/Thumbprint: For children under 5, a left thumb impression is required. For children aged 5-18, a signature is required. This must be done on the application form.
• Parents' Signatures: Both parents must sign the Annexure D and the application form (where specified).

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

Here’s how to navigate the renewal process from start to finish:

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

1. Visit the Passport Seva Portal: Go to the official Passport Seva website.
2. Register/Log In: If you don't have an account, register as a "New User." If you do, log in.
3. Select Application Type: Click on "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport."
4. Choose Region: Select "Apply in United Arab Emirates (UAE)" and then choose your specific mission (e.g., "Indian Consulate, Dubai" or "Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi").
5. Fill Details: Carefully fill out all the particulars.
   • Passport Type: Select "Re-issue of Passport."
   • Reason for Re-issue: Select the appropriate reason (e.g., "Validity Expired/About to Expire").
   • Type of Application: Choose "Normal" or "Tatkaal" (Tatkaal is for urgent processing, but has higher fees and stricter document requirements).
   • Booklet Type: Choose "36 Pages" or "60 Pages."
   • Minor Details: Ensure you correctly fill in all child's details, parents' details, and emergency contact information.
   • Address: Provide your current UAE address.
6. Save and Submit: Review all information before submitting. Once submitted, you cannot edit it.
7. Print Application: After successful submission, print the application form. Make sure the ARN (Application Reference Number) is clearly visible.

Step 2: Book an Appointment at BLS International

1. Visit BLS International Website: Go to the BLS International website for passport services in the UAE.
2. Select Passport Services: Navigate to the passport services section.
3. Book Appointment: Choose your nearest BLS center (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) and select an available date and time slot. You'll need your ARN to book.
4. Print Appointment Confirmation: Print out the appointment confirmation slip.

Step 3: Visit the BLS International Center

This is where you submit your physical documents.

1. Arrive Early: Try to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
2. Bring Everything: Carry all the original documents, two sets of photocopies, the printed online application form, and the BLS appointment confirmation.
3. Both Parents & Child Present: For minor passport applications, both parents and the child must be present at the BLS center. If one parent is absent, ensure you have the notarized Annexure C/D and a copy of their passport.
4. Document Verification: A BLS official will review your documents. They will check originals against photocopies and ensure all forms are correctly filled.
5. Biometrics & Photo: The child's biometrics (thumbprint for infants, signature for older children) will be taken. Your photo will be verified against the submitted physical photos.
6. Sign Annexure D: Both parents will be asked to sign Annexure D in front of the BLS official.
7. Fee Payment: Pay the applicable fees. These can be paid by card or cash, depending on the center. You will receive a receipt with a tracking number.
8. Collect Receipt: Do not lose this receipt! It's crucial for tracking and collecting the new passport.

Step 4: Track Your Application

Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress:

• BLS Tracking: Use the tracking number from your BLS receipt on the BLS website.
• Passport Seva Tracking: Use your ARN on the Passport Seva website.
• Consulate/Embassy Tracking: Sometimes, you can track directly on the Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi or Indian Consulate, Dubai website using your ARN.

You will typically receive SMS updates as your application progresses.

Fees and Processing Time

• Normal Application Fees: Expect to pay around AED 285-300 for a 36-page booklet for a minor, including BLS service charges and ICWF (Indian Community Welfare Fund) fees.
• Tatkaal Application Fees: Tatkaal (urgent) applications are significantly higher, usually around AED 900-1000, plus BLS charges.
• Processing Time (Normal): Generally takes 10-15 working days. This can vary depending on the workload at the Consulate/Embassy and any required police verification in India (if your Indian address is being updated or for first-time passports).
• Processing Time (Tatkaal): Can be as fast as 3-5 working days, but is not guaranteed and depends on successful police verification (if applicable).

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check the official BLS International website for the most current fee structure.

Important Considerations & Practical Tips

• Accuracy is Key: Double-check all information before submitting online and before going to BLS. Any discrepancy can cause delays.
• Photo Strictness: The photo requirements are very strict. Get your child's photos taken by a professional studio that understands Indian passport requirements. A common reason for rejection is an incorrect photo.
• Parental Consent (Annexure D): This form is critical. Ensure both parents sign it in front of the BLS official.
• Old Passport Cancellation: Your child's old passport will be canceled and returned to you along with the new passport. The old passport will have a "Cancelled" stamp, but any valid visas on it will remain valid (unless the visa is specifically tied to the passport number and needs transfer).
• Child's Presence: The child must be present for biometrics, regardless of age.
• Keep Copies: Always keep copies of all submitted documents and the BLS receipt for your records.
• Plan Ahead: Don't wait until the last minute. Start the renewal process at least 2-3 months before the passport expires, especially if you have upcoming travel plans.

After Receiving the New Passport

1. Check All Details: Immediately upon receiving the new passport, carefully check all personal details (name, date of birth, place of birth, parents' names, validity dates) to ensure there are no errors. If you find any, report them to BLS/Consulate immediately.
2. Update UAE Visa (if applicable): If your child's UAE residency visa was originally stamped on the old passport, you might need to transfer it to the new passport or update the passport details with GDRFA/ICP. While many visas are now linked to Emirates ID, it's always best to check with your company PRO or the relevant immigration authority to ensure compliance, especially if the new passport has a different passport number.

Common Questions Answered

• My child's visa is on the old passport. What do I do? The old passport will be returned to you marked "Cancelled," but the visa page itself won't be defaced. For most UAE visas, especially if linked to the Emirates ID, the visa remains valid. However, it's wise to carry both the old and new passports when traveling for a while. You can also visit Amer/Tasheel centers to inquire about updating passport details on your visa record, though it's often not mandatory unless specifically requested by immigration or your employer.
• Do I need to carry all original documents to BLS? Yes, absolutely. The BLS officials will verify all photocopies against the originals. Failing to present an original document will likely result in your application being rejected.
• What if one parent is not in the UAE? As mentioned, the absent parent needs to provide a notarized Annexure C (or Annexure D with specific clauses) giving consent, along with a copy of their passport. This is a common scenario, so BLS and the Consulates are familiar with it.
• My child's passport has already expired. Can I still renew it? Yes, you can. The process is the same, but you might need to write a letter explaining the delay, and sometimes there can be a small penalty fee or slightly longer processing time. It's always better to renew before expiry.

Renewing your child's Indian passport in the UAE is a manageable process with the right preparation. By following this guide and ensuring you have all your documents in order, you'll be well on your way to getting that new passport in hand. Good luck!