Renewing Your Indian Passport for a Child Under 5 in Dubai: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating the passport renewal process for your little one can feel daunting, especially in a foreign country. But don't worry, it's a well-trodden path for many Indian parents in Dubai. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, making the process as smooth as possible. We'll focus on children under 5 years old, as their requirements for biometrics are slightly different.

Let's dive in.

Getting Started: Key Things to Know Upfront

First things first, the application process for Indian passport services in Dubai is managed by BLS International Services Ltd. (BLS). They are the outsourced agency that handles applications on behalf of the Consulate General of India, Dubai. You'll interact with them for everything from appointment booking to document submission and collection.

Here are the critical points to remember for a child under 5:

• Mandatory Parent Presence: Both parents must be physically present at the BLS center during the application submission. This is a strict requirement for minor passport applications.
• No Child Biometrics (Under 5): Children under 5 years old do not need to provide biometrics (fingerprints or iris scans). However, their presence is still required for identification and photo verification.
• Originals and Copies: You'll need to carry all original documents along with a complete set of photocopies.

Documents You'll Need: The Essential Checklist

Gathering your documents meticulously is key to a hassle-free experience. Don't just prepare what's listed; ensure you have multiple photocopies of everything.

Here's what you'll need:

1. Child's Current Passport (Original + Copy): The existing Indian passport that needs renewal. Make sure to copy all used pages, especially the front and back data pages.
2. Parents' Passports (Original + Copy for Each Parent): Copy the front and back data pages.
3. Parents' Valid UAE Residence Visas (Original + Copy for Each Parent): Ensure these are current and clearly visible.
4. Child's Birth Certificate (Original + Copy): The Indian birth certificate.
5. Parents' Marriage Certificate (Original + Copy): If not in English, a notarized English translation might be required.
6. Annexure D (Original): This is a mandatory affidavit signed by both parents, giving consent for the child's passport renewal. You'll typically download this from the BLS or Passport Seva website, print it, and get it attested by the Consulate General of India (CGI) or a notary public before your BLS appointment. Crucially, ensure all signatures match those on the parents' passports.
7. Online Application Form (Printed Copy): After filling out the application online (we'll cover this next), you'll print a hard copy.
8. Photographs (Specific Requirements):
   • 2 recent passport-size photos (51mm x 51mm or 2x2 inches) of the child.
   • White background, matte finish, no shadows, clear face.
   • Ears visible, neutral expression, eyes open.
   • No head covering (unless for religious reasons, in which case the face must still be fully visible).
   • No glasses or glare.
   • It's highly recommended to get these professionally done at a photo studio that understands Indian passport requirements.
9. Address Proof (Copy): A copy of your current UAE address proof (e.g., utility bill like DEWA, tenancy contract, Emirates ID copy showing address). Also, a copy of your Indian address proof if you wish to update or retain it.
10. Emirates ID (Original + Copy for Both Parents): For identification purposes.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth application submission.

Step 1: Fill Out the Online Application Form

This is where your journey begins.

• Go to the official Indian Passport Seva Portal. Look for "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport."
• Select "Re-issue of Passport" and choose "Minor" for the applicant type.
• Fill in all details accurately. Pay close attention to name spellings, dates of birth, and parent details.
• Once completed, submit the form. You will receive an Application Reference Number (ARN).
• Print two copies of the application form. Make sure the barcode is clear on the printouts.

Step 2: Prepare Annexure D (and other forms if applicable)

• Download Annexure D from the BLS website or Passport Seva portal.
• Print it out.
• Both parents must sign Annexure D in the presence of an authorized official. In Dubai, this typically means getting it attested by the Consulate General of India (CGI) or a Notary Public. This step must be done before your BLS appointment. Check the CGI Dubai website for their attestation procedures and timings.

Step 3: Organize Your Documents

Lay out all the required original documents and their corresponding photocopies. Arrange them in the order they are listed on the BLS checklist for minor passport renewals. This makes the submission process much quicker at the center.

Step 4: Book an Appointment with BLS International

• Visit the official BLS International website for Dubai.
• Navigate to the "Appointment Booking" section.
• Select "Passport" services and choose the appropriate category (e.g., "Re-issue of Passport (Minor)").
• Choose your preferred center (e.g., Dubai, Sharjah, etc.) and select an available date and time slot.
• Print your appointment confirmation – you'll need this to enter the BLS center.

Step 5: Visit the BLS Center for Submission

This is the main event.

• Arrive on time for your appointment, but not too early, as entry might be restricted.
• Both parents and the child must be present.
• At the center, your appointment confirmation will be checked, and you'll be directed to a counter.
• The BLS staff will verify your documents against the checklist. Be prepared for them to ask for specific originals and copies.
• Payment of Fees: You will pay the application fee at the counter. The fees are typically paid in AED and can vary slightly, so check the BLS website for the most current rates. Payment is usually by cash or card.
• Once all documents are verified and fees paid, you'll receive an acknowledgment receipt with a tracking number. Keep this safe!

Step 6: Track Your Application

You can track the status of your passport application using two methods:

• Passport Seva Portal: Use your ARN on the Indian Passport Seva website.
• BLS International Website: Use the reference number provided on your BLS receipt.

Statuses typically move from "Application Submitted" to "Under Review at Consulate" to "Passport Printed" and finally "Passport Dispatched" or "Ready for Collection."

Step 7: Collect the New Passport

• Once the tracking status indicates the passport is "Ready for Collection," you can proceed to the BLS center.
• Who can collect? Typically, one parent can collect the passport, but they must bring the original BLS receipt, their original passport, and a copy of their passport. Always double-check the BLS website or your receipt for specific collection requirements.
• Verify Details: Upon collection, immediately check all details on the new passport – especially the child's name, date of birth, and parents' names – for any errors. If you find any, report them immediately to the BLS staff.

Important Tips and Potential Pitfalls

• Photo Quality: This is a common stumbling block. Ensure the child's photos meet all specifications. Even slight deviations can lead to rejection.
• Signature Consistency: Ensure signatures on all forms, especially Annexure D, match the signatures in the parents' passports.
• Attestation of Annexure D: Do not skip getting Annexure D attested before your BLS appointment. This is a critical prerequisite.
• Processing Times: Standard processing time can range from 7-15 working days for a normal application. Tatkaal (urgent) service is available for minors but has higher fees and requires specific justification in some cases. Always plan well in advance.
• Expired Passport: If the child's passport has already expired, you can still apply for renewal. The process remains largely the same, but ensure you mention it as a re-issue due to expiry.
• Keep Copies: Always keep a digital and physical copy of all submitted documents for your records.
• Check Websites: Before starting, always check the official Passport Seva Portal and BLS International Dubai websites for the most current requirements, forms, and fees. Rules can change.
• Patience is Key: The process might involve some waiting at the BLS center. Go prepared with snacks or entertainment for your child.

Fees

The fee for a minor's passport renewal is generally around AED 170-200 for a standard 36-page booklet, valid for 5 years or until the child turns 18 (whichever is earlier). There will be additional BLS service charges. Tatkaal (urgent) service costs significantly more. Always confirm the exact fees on the BLS website before your appointment.

Conclusion

Renewing your child's Indian passport in Dubai, while requiring careful attention to detail, is a straightforward process when you know what to expect. By preparing your documents thoroughly, understanding the steps, and being mindful of the key requirements (especially both parents' presence and Annexure D attestation), you'll have that new passport in hand before you know it. Good luck!