Track Your Indian Passport Application in Sharjah: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for an Indian passport, whether it's a fresh application, renewal, or any other service, can feel like a waiting game. The anxiety of not knowing your application's status is real. This guide is here to simplify the process of tracking your Indian passport application when you've applied through the BLS International center in Sharjah, UAE. Think of this as advice from someone who's been through it and wants to make it easier for you.

Let's dive straight into what matters most: how you can keep tabs on your application.

How to Track Your Application: The Core Method

The primary and most reliable way to track your Indian passport application submitted in Sharjah is through the official BLS International website. BLS International is the authorized service provider for Indian passport, visa, and consular services in the UAE.

Here's what you'll need before you start:

• Your Application Reference Number (also sometimes called the Web Reference Number or File Number). This is usually a 10-digit alphanumeric code, often starting with UAEAD or similar, which you received on your application receipt.
• Your Date of Birth.

Step-by-Step Tracking Process

Follow these steps to check your application status:

1. Visit the Official BLS Website: Go to the official BLS International UAE website. This is the central hub for all Indian consular services handled by BLS in the UAE.
2. Navigate to the Tracking Section: On the BLS homepage, look for a section or link typically labeled "Track Your Application" or "Passport Application Status." This is usually prominently displayed.
3. Select Your Jurisdiction/Centre: While the system often defaults to the correct region, ensure you select "UAE" or "Dubai" (as Sharjah falls under the Consulate General of India, Dubai's jurisdiction).
4. Enter Your Details:
   • In the designated field, carefully enter your Application Reference Number. Double-check for any typos.
   • Enter your Date of Birth in the format specified (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY).
5. Submit and View Status: Click the "Submit" or "Track" button. The system will then display the current status of your application.

Understanding Your Application Status

Once you submit your details, you'll see a status message. Here are some common statuses and what they generally mean:

• "Application Submitted at BLS Centre": Your application has been successfully received by the BLS center in Sharjah. It's now being processed internally before being sent to the Consulate.
• "Application is under process at Consulate": Your application documents have been forwarded from BLS to the Consulate General of India, Dubai and are currently being reviewed. This is where the bulk of the processing happens.
• "Police Verification has been initiated": For some applications (especially fresh passports or those with address changes), a police verification process is required at your address in India. This status means the Consulate has sent a request to the relevant police department.
• "Police Verification Report is awaited": The Consulate is waiting for the police department in India to submit their verification report. This step can sometimes cause delays, as it's outside the direct control of the Consulate or BLS.
• "Passport Printed": Great news! Your new passport has been printed.
• "Passport Dispatched from Consulate": Your passport has been sent back from the Consulate to the BLS center.
• "Passport Ready for Collection": Your new passport is at the BLS International center in Sharjah and is ready for you to pick up. You'll usually receive an SMS or email notification at this stage as well.
• "Application On Hold" / "Documents Required": This means there's an issue with your application, or additional documents are needed. You should receive communication from BLS or the Consulate detailing what's required. Act quickly to resolve this.

Realistic Timeframes and Expectations

Processing times can vary based on the type of service and the volume of applications.

• Normal (Regular) Service: Typically takes 15-20 working days. However, if police verification is required, this can extend the timeline significantly, sometimes up to 30-45 days or more.
• Tatkal (Emergency) Service: This expedited service usually takes 3-7 working days. Tatkal is only for specific urgent cases and has stricter eligibility criteria and higher fees.

Important Note: These timeframes are estimates. Always apply well in advance of any travel plans. Weekends and public holidays in both the UAE and India are not considered working days.

Common Questions and Practical Tips

What if my tracking number isn't working or showing updates?

• Double-check: Ensure you've entered the Application Reference Number and Date of Birth correctly.
• Wait a day or two: Sometimes, it takes 24-48 hours for new applications to reflect in the online tracking system after submission at BLS.
• Contact BLS: If the issue persists after a couple of days, reach out to the BLS International customer service helpline. You can find their contact details on the BLS International UAE website.

Can I track via SMS or Email?

Yes, BLS often sends SMS and email updates to the contact information you provided during your application, especially when your passport is ready for collection. However, the online tracking system remains the most detailed way to check status.

What about Police Verification in India?

If police verification is initiated, the time it takes depends entirely on the efficiency of the police department in your hometown in India. You can't directly track this part of the process through BLS, but the "Police Verification Report is awaited" status will tell you it's happening. If there's a significant delay, you might need to have someone in India follow up with the local police station.

What if my application is "On Hold" or "Documents Required"?

You should receive specific instructions from BLS or the Consulate. They will tell you exactly what additional documents are needed or what issue needs to be resolved. Address these promptly to avoid further delays.

Keeping Your Records Safe

Always keep your original application receipt and a copy of your Application Reference Number in a safe place. These are crucial for tracking and for collecting your passport.

Collection Process

Once your status shows "Passport Ready for Collection" and you've received an SMS/email, you can proceed to the BLS International center in Sharjah during their specified collection hours. You will typically need to present:

• Your original BLS receipt
• Your original Emirates ID (or other valid ID)

Make sure to check the BLS website or your notification for the exact requirements for collection.

Final Thoughts

Tracking your Indian passport application in Sharjah doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal. By using the official BLS International website and understanding the various status messages, you can stay informed. Be patient, keep your documents handy, and don't hesitate to reach out to BLS customer service if you encounter genuine issues. Good luck!