How NRIs in UAE can add local address to Indian passport
Explained: How NRIs in UAE can add their local address to an Indian passport
Indian citizens living in the UAE who no longer maintain a permanent address in India can now update their passports to include their local UAE address. This service, introduced in 2020 by the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Dubai, helps long-term expatriates maintain accurate and valid address details on their Indian passports.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in the UAE can apply for this service, along with the required documents, fees, and processing timeline.
Step 1: Apply for a new passport
The Indian Consulate has clarified that the local address update cannot be made on an existing passport. Instead, applicants must apply for a new passport (re-issue) reflecting the UAE address.
You can start the application in one of two ways:
Option 1: In-person at a BLS Centre
Visit any BLS International Service Centre, the official passport and visa outsourcing partner for the CGI. Request the EAP-II form (Application Form for Miscellaneous Services on Indian Passport) to update your address.
Option 2: Online application
Go to the official Passport Seva at Indian Embassies and Consulates portal:
👉 https://portal5.passportindia.gov.in
Select the option to re-issue an ordinary passport with a new address.
Complete the form online, print it out, and submit it along with required documents at a BLS centre.
Step 2: Visit BLS Centre and provide address details
Once at the BLS centre, submit your printed application or complete the process in person. You’ll need to provide your UAE address details, including:
Emirate of residence
Street name and area
House number
Mobile number and email
You must also list one Indian address (for police verification). This can be your parent’s or relative’s address in India, as required by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Step 3: Submit proof of UAE address
To confirm your UAE residency, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
Original valid Indian passport
Registered tenancy contract or title deed (you must have lived at the property for at least one year)
Valid Emirates ID
Recent utilities bill, depending on your emirate:
Dubai: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC)
Sharjah: Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA)
Ajman, UAQ, Fujairah, RAK, Dhaid: Etihad Water and Electricity (Etihad WE)
Your current passport must also be submitted during the application process. Once approved, both your old and new passports will be returned via courier.
Step 4: Pay the applicable fees
The cost of updating your passport depends on where you apply:
Dh415 – Standard BLS Service Centre
Dh650 – Premium BLS Lounge (faster service and additional facilities)
The fee includes service and courier charges.
Step 5: Processing time
The processing period usually takes 10 to 15 working days, depending on the Consulate General of India’s discretion. Applicants will receive an SMS notification once the new passport is ready for collection or dispatch.
Important Notes
Police verification in India remains mandatory for all reissue applications.
Ensure all documents are valid and up to date, especially your tenancy contract and Emirates ID.
The service applies only to Indian citizens residing in the UAE with valid residency permits.
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