The Government of India is taking a major step toward modernizing its consular services abroad. Starting October 28, 2025, the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Dubai will officially launch the “Passport Seva 2.0” project — an upgraded, technology-driven system designed to make passport services faster, more secure, and more convenient for Indian nationals living in the UAE.
✈️ What Is Passport Seva 2.0?
Passport Seva 2.0 is the next-generation version of India’s existing passport issuance system. It integrates advanced technology features like:
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E-passports embedded with microchips to store biometric and personal data.
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An upgraded online application portal for easy document submission and appointment booking.
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Simplified correction processes, allowing service partners to fix minor errors without requiring applicants to start over.
The goal is to ensure a smoother and more transparent passport experience for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly those in Dubai and the wider UAE.
💡 Why This Launch Matters
With millions of Indians living in the Gulf region, passport services are in constant demand. The launch of Passport Seva 2.0 is expected to:
✅ Reduce processing time by allowing digital uploads of photographs, signatures, and documents.
✅ Enhance security through e-passports that meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
✅ Improve efficiency by minimizing form re-submissions for minor corrections.
✅ Offer convenience through a more user-friendly digital interface and streamlined workflows.
🖥️ How the New Process Works
Here’s how Indian residents in Dubai can apply under the new system:
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Register online on the new Passport Seva 2.0 portal.
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Complete the application form and upload a passport-size photo, digital signature, and supporting documents.
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Generate and print the form, if required.
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Book an appointment with BLS International (the official service partner) for document verification.
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Submit your application and biometric data at the BLS center or the Consulate, as instructed.
Notably, applicants will no longer need to reapply for small typographical errors — BLS International can make these corrections directly.
📸 Important Guidelines for Applicants
Before you apply, keep these points in mind:
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Ensure your photograph meets ICAO standards (neutral expression, white background, correct size, and clarity).
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Apply early — a large number of users may try to access the system soon after launch.
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Keep digital copies of all uploaded documents as backups.
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Follow updates from the Consulate General of India, Dubai, and BLS International for the latest instructions.
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Check if your existing application (under the old system) needs to be migrated to the new one.
🌍 A Step Toward Global Standards
The introduction of chip-enabled e-passports and an advanced digital system aligns India with several global passport modernization initiatives. It reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing the overseas experience for its citizens, ensuring both security and efficiency.
For Dubai’s massive Indian diaspora, this upgrade promises less paperwork, shorter waiting times, and a more transparent process — a big leap toward a fully digital consular ecosystem.
🗣️ Final Thoughts
The launch of Passport Seva 2.0 is a landmark initiative that blends technology, transparency, and convenience. As India continues to strengthen its digital governance, such initiatives reaffirm its commitment to serving citizens — no matter where in the world they reside.
For NRIs in Dubai, this means one thing: a faster, smarter, and more secure passport experience is finally here.