Indian expats in the UAE are set to experience a major upgrade in how they apply for and renew their passports. The Consulate General of India in Dubai has confirmed that all Indian nationals in the UAE will now receive the new e-passport, replacing the traditional paper booklet.
This marks a nationwide shift by the Government of India, which officially rolled out the e-passport system globally from October 28, 2025. For the UAE’s large Indian community, it means faster processing, enhanced security, and a smarter, globally compatible document.
Changes for Indian passport holders in the UAE
The e-passport looks almost the same as the regular one, but inside, it carries a hidden tech upgrade — a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip securely embedded into the cover. This chip stores key information such as the passport holder’s name, date of birth, passport number, and biometric details.
Officials at the Indian missions in the UAE say the move aims to make the passport more secure and nearly impossible to forge. The chip will be readable at immigration counters worldwide, allowing border officers to instantly verify details stored in both the physical and digital sections of the passport.
Faster, simpler application through GPSP 2.0
The new system is part of India’s upgraded Global Passport Seva Programme (GPSP 2.0). It introduces a streamlined online process that helps cut down waiting times and reduces paperwork for overseas applicants.
According to Indian embassy officials, the application now takes as little as two minutes to fill out online. Applicants only need to enter their existing passport number, complete verification, and submit the form digitally.
Those who already have upcoming passport renewal appointments in the UAE can choose between two options: continue with their old application (and receive the paper passport) or resubmit details through the new online system to receive an e-passport.
No change in fees or turnaround time
For UAE residents, the application process remains familiar. You’ll still visit BLS International Centres in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah to submit your documents. The difference is purely in the format of the passport issued.
Officials have clarified that service charges and processing times remain unchanged, and there is no new biometric data collection for now. Applicants will, however, need to upload photos that comply with ICAO biometric photo standards, ensuring the system can extract accurate facial data for verification.
Extra layer of digital security
One of the biggest advantages of the new passport is its built-in security. The RFID chip encrypts your details, and the system will instantly flag any attempt to tamper with the data.
Immigration systems immediately detect mismatched data if someone tries to clone or forge a passport
This digital safeguard brings India’s passport system on par with global standards already adopted by countries like the UAE, Singapore, and the UK.
Key things applicants should keep in mind
- Photo specifications: Make sure your photograph meets ICAO guidelines — plain background, proper lighting, and clear visibility of features. Non-compliant photos may cause delays.
- Old passport validity: Current passports remain valid until expiry, so you don’t need to replace them immediately unless applying for a new one.
- Ongoing applications: Those who have already submitted the old-form applications can choose to continue or switch to the e-passport version.
- No extra charges: Fees for e-passports are the same as regular passports issued previously.
How it benefits Indian expats in the UAE
The UAE is home to over three million Indian residents, and this transition directly benefits frequent travellers between the two countries.
The e-passport’s machine-readable format ensures faster immigration checks and smoother travel experiences at airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond. It’s also more durable and globally recognised, making it easier to navigate international systems that now rely heavily on biometric validation.
For many Indian professionals, this also reflects India’s broader digital transformation — moving toward paperless, secure, and globally connected government services.
The introduction of e-passports for Indian citizens in the UAE represents a step into the future of secure travel. It’s efficient, safe, and designed for a generation that moves quickly between countries for work, family, or leisure.
If you’re due for a passport renewal soon, expect your next Indian passport to arrive with a high-tech twist — one that keeps your data safe while making travel smoother.
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