NRIs in the UAE must reissue their Indian passport via BLS, providing original address proof, valid visa, and mandatory documents/Representative Image
For Indian citizens living in the UAE, keeping passport records accurate—especially the address—is not just about compliance but also a key to avoiding administrative roadblocks. Whether you need to update your Indian address or include your UAE residence, the passport reissue process has clear steps, document requirements, and procedural guidelines every Non-Resident Indian (NRI) should follow.
When and why address updates are required
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) based in the UAE must reissue their Indian passports if the address printed in the document is outdated or no longer valid. This is especially important when:
- The passport reflects an old or incorrect address.
- The applicant has moved to a new permanent residence in India.
- There is no permanent Indian address available, and the applicant wants to use their UAE address instead.
The process is handled by BLS International Services UAE, the official outsourcing partner for the Consulate General of India. All applications and document submissions go through BLS centers located across the Emirates.
Required documents for address verification
To support an address update request, applicants must provide original documents and, where required, photocopies. Below are the accepted proofs depending on your situation:For Indian Address Updates:
- Utility Bills (English only): Electricity, water, gas, or telephone bills, issued within the last three months.
- Identity Documents: Aadhaar card, e-Aadhaar, or Election Commission (voter ID) card.
- Nativity Certificate: Must be either:
- An original certificate attested by the relevant State Home Department in India, or
- A digitally verifiable certificate showing place of origin or birth.
- Bank Passbook: An original passbook of an active bank account with:
- A photocopy of the first page
- Copies of recent transaction pages from the last 12 months
These documents serve as address verification and are mandatory to process the reissue request.
Step by step process for address change
To update your passport address while in the UAE, follow these steps precisely:
- Complete the Application Form: Use the official passport application form for miscellaneous services (address update).
- Submit Original Passport: Provide your current passport along with photocopies of relevant pages.
- Photographs: Submit recent passport-sized photos that meet the Consulate’s specification.
- Valid UAE Residence Visa: Your residency visa should be current and valid at the time of application.
- Supporting Documents: Include all address proofs, along with a request letter explaining the reason for the address update.
- Personal Appearance: All applicants must visit the BLS center in person to verify their identity.
Updating address based on a spouse or parent
If the address update is based on a spouse’s or parent’s documentation, the following applies:
- When Spouse/Parent Lives in India:
- A Notarized No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the spouse or parent is required.
- When Spouse/Parent Lives in the UAE:
- A Sworn Affidavit must be submitted instead of an NOC.
- For Minor Applicants:
- The address must match the one listed in the parent’s passport.
Regardless of the relationship, the applicant must be physically present at the BLS center to establish identity.
Including UAE address in Indian passport
Since 2020, Indian passport holders who do not have a permanent address in India are allowed to include their UAE address instead. To avail this option, the following documents must be submitted:
- Tenancy or Ownership Proof:
- A registered tenancy contract in the applicant’s name
- Or, a title deed if the applicant owns the property
- Other Supporting Documents:
- Any additional proof requested by the BLS center, based on individual cases.
This change helps NRIs without a fixed address in India maintain valid travel documents and ensures consistency across official records.
Fees, timeline, and practical tips
Standard Costs:
- The typical fee for passport reissue due to address change is AED 285 (INR 6,836).
- Optional services, such as courier delivery or premium lounge access, may add to the total cost.
Processing Time:
- Standard processing takes 10–15 working days, so applicants should plan accordingly.
Key Reminders:
- Appointment Required: Pre-book your appointment at a BLS center to avoid delays.
- Originals Are Mandatory: All documents must be verified in original at the time of submission.
- Keep Records: Make photocopies of everything you submit for your own records.
- Double-Check Forms: Mistakes in the application or supporting documents can lead to rejections or delays.
