Your Urgent Indian Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide to Tatkal Appointment Booking in Sharjah

Need an Indian passport renewed or reissued in a hurry while you're in Sharjah? The Tatkal scheme is your answer for expedited processing. While it requires a bit more preparation and a higher fee, it significantly cuts down the waiting time. This guide will walk you through the entire process of booking a Tatkal Indian passport appointment in Sharjah, from understanding the requirements to successfully submitting your application.

Let's cut to the chase: securing a Tatkal appointment in Sharjah involves an online application through the Indian government's Passport Seva Portal, followed by booking a slot with BLS International UAE, the outsourced service provider. The key challenge is often the limited availability of Tatkal slots, so persistence and quick action are crucial.

What is Tatkal and Are You Eligible?

Tatkal means "urgent" in Hindi. It's a special provision for applicants who need their passport processed faster than the standard service. This could be due to an urgent travel requirement, a medical emergency, or any other pressing need.

Eligibility Check: Before you even think about booking, ensure you meet the basic criteria for a Tatkal application. Generally, most applicants are eligible, but there are some exceptions. For instance, if you have a complex case (e.g., lost passport with adverse police report, change in personal particulars requiring extensive verification), your application might not be accepted under Tatkal. Always check the official Passport Seva Portal for detailed eligibility criteria under the "Tatkal" section.

Essential Prerequisites Before You Start

Getting your ducks in a row before hitting the "apply" button will save you a lot of headache.

1. Valid Documents: Gather all necessary documents. This is the most critical step. For a Tatkal application, you'll generally need:

   • Your original current passport (if renewing).
   • A copy of your current passport (first two and last two pages, ECR/Non-ECR page, and observation page, if any).
   • Original valid UAE Residence Visa and a copy.
   • Emirates ID (original and copy).
   • Proof of address in UAE (e.g., utility bill, tenancy contract, bank statement).
   • Three recent passport-sized photographs (51x51mm, white background, matte finish, dark clothes, no spectacles, ears visible).
   • Annexure E form (self-declaration) – download from the Passport Seva Portal.
   • Annexure F or G (if applicable, e.g., for minors without one parent's consent or if applying for a lost/damaged passport).
   • Proof of urgent need (optional, but good to have if asked, e.g., flight tickets, medical certificate).
   • For minors: Parent’s passports, marriage certificate, and original birth certificate.

   Pro Tip: Always carry originals and at least two sets of photocopies of all documents. BLS will often verify originals and keep copies.

2. Stable Internet Connection: You'll be applying online, and the booking window for Tatkal slots can be very competitive. A reliable connection is key.

3. Payment Method: A credit/debit card for online payment of the government fee.

Step-by-Step Tatkal Application & Appointment Booking

This is where the rubber meets the road. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Register and Apply Online on the Passport Seva Portal

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Passport Seva Portal.
2. New User Registration: If you don't have an account, click "New User Registration." Select "Passport Office, Dubai" as the Indian Mission/Post in the UAE. Complete the registration with your details.
3. Login: Once registered, log in to your account.
4. Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport: Click on this option.
5. Fill the Application Form:
   • Choose the "Tatkal" option under the Scheme Type. This is crucial.
   • Carefully fill in all your personal details, passport details (if re-issue), family details, and address.
   • Double-check everything. Any error can lead to delays or rejection.
6. Review and Submit: Once you've filled everything, review the form thoroughly before submitting.
7. Pay and Schedule Appointment: After submission, you'll be prompted to pay the government fee online. The Tatkal fee is significantly higher than the normal fee. Always refer to the official Passport Seva Portal for the current fee structure.
   • After successful payment, you'll reach the "Schedule Appointment" page.

2. Booking Your BLS Appointment in Sharjah

This is often the most challenging part for Tatkal applicants. BLS International handles all passport application submissions in Sharjah.

1. Select Location: On the Passport Seva Portal's "Schedule Appointment" page, select "Sharjah" as your desired Passport Application Centre (PAC).
2. The Tatkal Slot Hunt:
   • Tatkal slots are limited and often open up unpredictably. There isn't a fixed daily schedule for their release.
   • Be Persistent: You might need to check the portal multiple times a day, across several days. Many applicants report success by checking very early in the morning (e.g., 8:00 AM UAE time) or late at night.
   • Act Fast: Once a Tatkal slot appears, book it immediately. They disappear in seconds. Have your details ready to quickly confirm.
   • If no slots are available, don't despair. Keep refreshing the page and checking back.
3. Print Appointment Confirmation: Once you successfully book a slot, print out the appointment confirmation receipt. This will have your Application Reference Number (ARN) and the appointment details.

Important Note on Fees: The fee paid on the Passport Seva Portal is the government processing fee. You will also pay a BLS service charge and any additional charges (e.g., SMS service, courier fee) directly at the BLS center during your appointment.

Preparing for Your Appointment Day

You've secured the elusive Tatkal slot – fantastic! Now, ensure your appointment day goes smoothly.

1. Organize Documents: Arrange all your original documents and their photocopies in the exact order specified on the BLS website or your appointment confirmation. This speeds up the process significantly.
2. Photos: Ensure your photos meet the exact specifications (51x51mm, white background, matte finish, etc.). BLS centers often have photo booths if you need new ones, but it's best to come prepared.
3. Carry Cash/Card: For BLS service charges and any other payments.
4. Print Everything:
   • Online application form (ARN sheet).
   • Appointment confirmation.
   • Payment receipt (for government fee).
   • Annexure E (and any other applicable annexures).

At the BLS International Center in Sharjah

1. Arrive Early: Aim to reach the BLS center at least 15-20 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This allows for security checks and finding your way.
2. Token System: You'll likely be issued a token upon entry. Wait for your number to be called.
3. Document Verification: At the counter, a BLS staff member will meticulously verify all your original documents against the photocopies and your online application. This is where incomplete or incorrect documents cause issues.
4. Fee Payment: Pay the BLS service charges and any optional services you opt for.
5. Biometrics: Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
6. Submission: Once everything is verified and captured, your application will be submitted. You will receive an acknowledgement receipt. Keep this receipt safe as it contains your tracking number.

After Your Appointment: Tracking and Collection

1. Track Your Application: You can track the status of your application using the ARN on the Passport Seva Portal or the BLS International UAE website.
2. Tatkal Timelines: Tatkal applications are processed faster. While standard processing can take weeks, Tatkal is often completed within 3-7 working days after successful submission and police verification (if required). However, this is an estimate; actual times can vary based on workload and specific circumstances.
3. Police Verification: Depending on your specific case (e.g., first-time passport, address change), police verification might be initiated. For Tatkal, this is often done post-issuance or expedited.
4. Passport Collection: You will receive an SMS notification once your passport is ready for collection at the BLS center (if you opted for self-collection) or when it has been dispatched via courier.

Common Questions & Potential Pitfalls

• "What if I can't find a Tatkal slot?"
  • Keep trying at different times of the day. Slots are released dynamically.
  • Consider applying for a Normal service if your urgency isn't extreme, as those slots are generally more available.
• "Can I convert a Normal application to Tatkal?"
  • Once you've submitted a "Normal" application online and paid the fee, changing it to Tatkal is generally not possible without cancelling the first application and re-applying. This means losing the initial fee. It's best to decide upfront.
• "What if my documents aren't complete?"
  • Your application will likely be put on hold or rejected. You'll then have to resubmit, causing significant delays and potential reprocessing fees. Always double-check your documents.
• "Are Tatkal fees refundable if my application is rejected?"
  • The government fee paid online is generally non-refundable once the application is submitted, even if it's rejected due to incomplete documents or ineligibility.
• "What if I miss my appointment?"
  • You'll need to reschedule, which means going through the slot booking process again. Your paid fee usually remains valid for a certain period (check the Passport Seva Portal's FAQ).

Key Tips for Success

• Be Prepared: Have all your documents ready, organized, and photocopied before you start the online process.
• Act Fast: When a Tatkal slot appears, book it without hesitation.
• Double-Check Everything: From your application details to document copies, verify every piece of information.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Securing a Tatkal slot can be frustrating. Don't give up after a few tries.
• Stay Updated: Check the official Passport Seva Portal and BLS International UAE websites regularly for the latest requirements, fees, and operational updates.

Applying for a Tatkal passport in Sharjah can feel like a race against time, but with thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can successfully navigate it. Good luck!