Your Complete Guide to Booking an Indian Passport Renewal Online Appointment in Abu Dhabi

Renewing your Indian passport while living in Abu Dhabi might seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and a clear step-by-step approach, it's actually quite straightforward. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from filling out the online application to booking your appointment and submitting your documents, ensuring you're well-prepared for a smooth experience.

The core of the process involves two main stages: completing your online application on the Indian government's Passport Seva Portal and then booking an appointment with BLS International Services, the outsourced agency handling passport services in the UAE.

Who Can Renew Their Passport in Abu Dhabi?

This guide is for Indian citizens residing in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain whose passports are either expiring, have already expired, or require renewal due to other reasons like exhaustion of pages, name change, or damage. You must have a valid UAE residence visa.

Essential Prerequisites Before You Start

Before you even think about booking an appointment, gather these crucial items. Being prepared here saves a lot of hassle later.

• Your Current/Expired Indian Passport: This is obvious, but ensure it's accessible.
• Valid UAE Residence Visa: You'll need proof of your residency status in Abu Dhabi.
• Emirates ID: Your identification card issued by the UAE government.
• Recent Passport-Sized Photographs:
  • Dimensions: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm).
  • Background: Plain white.
  • Finish: Matte or semi-matte.
  • Face: Full face, front view, open eyes, natural expression.
  • Clothing: Dark color, contrasting with the background.
  • Glasses: No glare on glasses, no thick frames.
  • Note: Many BLS centers have photo booths, but it's best to come prepared.
• Proof of Address (in India): While not always strictly required for renewal if your address hasn't changed, it's good to have a document like an Aadhar Card, electricity bill, or bank statement ready, especially if you plan to update your Indian address.
• A Reliable Internet Connection and Printer: You'll need these for the online application and printing forms.
• Payment Method: Be ready for online payment during the application and in-person payment at BLS.

Step 1: Complete Your Online Application on Passport Seva Portal

This is the very first and most critical step. You must complete the online application form and generate an Application Reference Number (ARN) before you can book an appointment with BLS International.

1. Visit the Official Passport Seva Portal: Go to the Passport Seva Portal.
2. Register or Log In:
   • If you're a first-time user, click on "New User? Register Now." Fill in your details carefully. Select "Passport Office (India)" as "Abu Dhabi" won't be an option here; this is for the Indian government's backend processing. Don't worry, you'll specify Abu Dhabi later.
   • If you're already registered, log in with your User ID and Password.
3. Choose Application Type: Once logged in, click on "Apply for Ordinary Passport / Tatkaal Passport / Diplomatic Passport / Official Passport / Emergency Certificate." For most renewals, you'll choose "Ordinary Passport."
4. Fill Out the Application Form:
   • Select "Fresh Passport / Re-issue of Passport." For renewals, choose "Re-issue of Passport."
   • Carefully fill in all personal details, family details, address details (both Indian and UAE), and emergency contact information.
   • Be meticulous: Any errors here can cause delays or rejection at the BLS center. Double-check names, dates of birth, and passport numbers.
   • Choose the required service: "Validity Expired / Due to Expire," "Change in Existing Personal Particulars," "Pages Exhausted," etc.
   • Tatkal vs. Normal: If you need your passport urgently, select "Tatkal." Be aware that Tatkal has stricter requirements and higher fees.
5. Review and Submit: After filling out all sections, review your application thoroughly. Once satisfied, click "Submit."
6. Generate ARN: Upon successful submission, an Application Reference Number (ARN) will be generated. Note this down carefully! You will need it for the BLS appointment booking.
7. Print Application Form: You will have an option to "Print Application Form." Print at least two copies. This form will have your ARN printed on it.

Step 2: Book Your Appointment with BLS International

With your ARN in hand, you can now proceed to book your physical appointment at the BLS International center in Abu Dhabi.

1. Visit the BLS International UAE Website: Go to BLS International UAE.
2. Navigate to Passport Services: Look for "Passport Services" in the menu.
3. Find "Appointment Booking": On the Passport Services page, locate and click on "Appointment Booking."
4. Select Your Center: Choose "Abu Dhabi" from the list of centers.
5. Enter Details: You will be prompted to enter your ARN (from Step 1), your current passport number, and other personal details.
6. Choose Date and Time Slot: The system will display available dates and time slots. Select a slot that works for you. Weekends and evenings tend to fill up quickly, so book in advance.
7. Confirm and Print: Once confirmed, print your Appointment Confirmation Slip. This slip is mandatory for entry to the BLS center.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents for Appointment Day

This is where many applicants face issues. Having all original documents and their photocopies, properly arranged, is crucial.

Here’s a comprehensive checklist:

• Printed Online Application Form: The one with your ARN, printed from the Passport Seva Portal.
• BLS Appointment Confirmation Slip: Printed from the BLS website.
• Original Current/Expired Indian Passport: And a photocopy of the first two and last two pages, plus any observation pages.
• Original Emirates ID: And a photocopy.
• Original UAE Residence Visa Page: And a photocopy (usually endorsed on your passport, but a separate copy if applicable).
• Passport-Sized Photographs: 2-4 copies, adhering to the specifications mentioned earlier.
• Original Indian Address Proof: If your Indian address on the passport needs updating or if you're asked for it (e.g., Aadhar Card, utility bill, bank statement, driving license). Also, a photocopy.
• Original UAE Address Proof: If different from your Emirates ID (e.g., tenancy contract, utility bill). Also, a photocopy.
• Annexures/Affidavits (if applicable):
  • Minor Applicants: Original passports of both parents, original marriage certificate (if applicable), Annexure D (consent of both parents), passport copies of both parents, and child's birth certificate. Both parents must be present.
  • Lost/Damaged Passport: Original police report (translated to English), Annexure F (Affidavit for Lost/Damaged Passport), details of how/when/where it was lost/damaged.
  • Name Change/Spouse Name Addition/Deletion: Original marriage certificate (if applicable), newspaper advertisements (for name change), relevant Annexures (E, I).
  • ECNR Status: Proof of ECNR (e.g., educational certificates like 10th pass mark sheet or higher).
• Self-Attestation: All photocopies should be self-attested by the applicant (or parents for minors). Write "Self-Attested" and sign.

Tip: Arrange your documents in the order they are listed on the BLS checklist for passport services. This makes submission much quicker.

Step 4: On the Day of Your Appointment at BLS

1. Arrive Early: Aim to reach the BLS International center at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled time. This gives you time to find parking, locate the center, and manage any unexpected delays.
2. Security Check & Token: Present your BLS Appointment Confirmation Slip at the entrance. You'll likely go through a security check and receive a token number.
3. Wait for Your Turn: Wait in the designated area until your token number is called.
4. Document Submission: Proceed to the counter. The BLS representative will check your application form and all supporting documents. They will verify originals and collect photocopies.
   • Be prepared for questions: They might ask for clarification on your application details.
   • Corrections: If there are minor errors, they might guide you to correct them. For major errors, you might need to re-apply online and book a new appointment.
5. Biometrics & Photo: Your fingerprints and a live photograph will be taken at the counter.
6. Fee Payment: Pay the applicable government fees and BLS service charges. Payment is usually accepted by cash or card. Keep your receipt safe.
7. Acknowledgement Receipt: Once your application is accepted and fees are paid, you will receive an acknowledgement receipt. This contains a tracking number and details about your application. Do NOT lose this! You'll need it to track your application and collect your new passport.
8. Courier Service (Optional): You might be offered a courier service for your new passport delivery. This is usually an additional paid service.

Step 5: Tracking Your Application

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

• Passport Seva Portal: Use your ARN on the Passport Seva Portal under "Track Application Status."
• BLS International UAE Website: Use the tracking number provided on your BLS acknowledgement receipt on the BLS International UAE website under "Track Your Application."
• SMS Updates: You will also receive SMS updates on your registered mobile number at various stages of the processing.

Processing Times:

• Normal Applications: Typically take 3-4 weeks.
• Tatkal Applications: Can be processed in 1-2 weeks.
• These are estimates and can vary based on various factors, including police verification in India and workload.

Step 6: Collecting Your New Passport

Once your passport status shows "Passport has been dispatched" or "Passport printing initiated," you'll receive an SMS notifying you when it's ready for collection or has been dispatched via courier.

• If you opted for courier: Your passport will be delivered to your registered address.
• If you opted for self-collection:
  • Head back to the BLS International center during their designated passport collection hours.
  • Bring: Your BLS acknowledgement receipt, your old passport (which will be cancelled and returned to you), and your Emirates ID.
  • Verify all details on your new passport immediately upon collection (name, DOB, photo, validity dates).

Common Questions & Practical Tips

• When to Renew? It's highly recommended to apply for renewal 6-9 months before your current passport expires. Many countries require at least 6 months of validity on your passport for travel.
• Minor Errors on Old Passport: If there's a minor error on your old passport (e.g., spelling mistake in name), ensure you apply for "Re-issue of Passport" and select "Change in Existing Personal Particulars" accordingly. Provide supporting documents.
• Tatkal Service: Only opt for Tatkal if you genuinely have an urgent need (e.g., emergency travel). Be prepared for the higher fee and ensure you meet all specific Tatkal requirements outlined on the BLS website.
• Police Verification: For some renewal cases, particularly those involving address changes in India, a police verification might be initiated by the Indian authorities. This can add to the processing time.
• Double-Check Everything: Before you leave your home for the BLS appointment, do a final check of all documents against the BLS checklist. A missing document means a wasted trip.
• BLS Helplines: If you have specific questions or face issues, don't hesitate to contact the BLS International helpline for Abu Dhabi. Their contact details are available on their website.
• Keep Copies: Always keep copies of all submitted documents and receipts for your records.

Renewing your Indian passport in Abu Dhabi is a process that demands attention to detail and patience. By meticulously following these steps and preparing all your documents in advance, you can ensure a smooth and successful application. Good luck!