Dubai, UAE. November 2, 2025: A new era of digital travel documents has begun for Indian citizens in the UAE. From now on, passport applicants will receive chip-enabled e-passports, a next-generation document designed to enhance both security and efficiency.
The initiative, launched under India's Global Passport Seva Programme (GPSP 2.0) on October 28, 2025, marks a significant step forward in modernising the country's passport services abroad. The reform aims to make the application process faster, more transparent and user-friendly, a shift welcomed by the Indian community in the Emirates.
Smarter Passports for a Smarter Process
Unlike the traditional printed booklet, the new e-passport comes with a built-in microchip that digitally stores the holder's personal information, mirroring what's printed on the data page. This secure chip, officials say, will make forgery or tampering far more difficult while speeding up identity verification at immigration counters.
“The e-passport is the next generation of travel documents that align with global best practices,” said A. Amarnath, Charge d'Affaires of the Embassy of India to the UAE. “It carries a digital copy of the information found in the physical passport, ensuring authenticity and easier verification.”
Applications Go Fully Online
Starting this week, all passport-related services for Indian nationals in the UAE must be processed through the new online portal
The system allows applicants to upload ICAO-compliant photographs, signatures and supporting documents before visiting the BLS centres, a move expected to cut waiting times drastically. Small corrections can now be made at the service centres without forcing applicants to redo their forms without charging any extra fees for such edits.
No Change in Fees, No Biometric Data Yet
Authorities clarified that passport fees remain unchanged under the new programme. Applicants will not be required to submit biometric data during this rollout phase.
Those who had already scheduled appointments before October 28 can still proceed under the old system, though they may choose to shift to the new e-passport format if they wish.
Aligning with Global Standards
Consul General Satish Sivan described the GPSP 2.0 rollout as a “major milestone” in India's ongoing effort to digitise consular services abroad.
“This reform brings passport services closer to international standards,” Sivan said. “It simplifies the process and makes it more accessible for Indian nationals living overseas. Applicants can now complete most steps from home, making their visit to the BLS centres much shorter.”
Initial Hiccups Expected
Officials have cautioned that minor technical issues may arise as the new system stabilises in its early days. The consulate said it is working closely with India's Ministry of External Affairs to ensure a smooth transition for applicants.
“We request a bit of patience from our community,” added Amarnath. “This is a global system upgrade, and it will take a short time to settle in. But once fully operational, it will greatly benefit Indian citizens across the world.”
The introduction of e-passports for Indian expats in the UAE is more than a technological upgrade, it's a step toward a smarter, safer and more efficient travel identity system, connecting India's digital progress to its global diaspora.
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