How NRIs in the UAE can change their address on Indian passport

Non-residential Indians (NRIs) living in the UAE can update the address on their Indian passport if it is outdated. The process involves reissuing a new passport and must be done through BLS International Services UAE, the official service provider of the Consulate General of India (CGI).

Appointments are required at BLS centres in the respective emirates.

Documents required
Individuals must submit proof of their current or permanent Indian address. Acceptable documents include:

• Recent electricity, telephone, water, or gas bills (in English), not older than three months.
• Original election commission card, e-Aadhaar, or Aadhaar card.
• Original or verifiable online nativity certificate issued by the state home department.
• Bank passbook of an active account, with photocopies of the first and latest transaction pages for the last year.

Application process

Individuals applying for address changes must follow these steps:

• Fill out a passport application form for changing or updating details (miscellaneous services)
• Submit their original passport along with copies
• Provide recent passport photos as per specifications
• Ensure their UAE residence visa is valid
• Support any changes or corrections with documentary evidence and a request letter explaining the update

Address change based on spouse or parent
If updating the address based on a spouse or parent, applicants must provide:

• A notarized NOC or sworn affidavit from the spouse or parent, depending on whether they reside in the UAE or India.
• For minors, the address is updated according to the parent’s passport.
• Personal appearance is mandatory to establish identity.

Adding UAE address to Indian passport
From 2020, NRIs without a permanent home in India can include their UAE address in the passport. Required documents include a registered tenancy contract or property title deed, along with supporting documents.

The standard fee for address change and passport reissue is around Dh285. Optional services such as premium lounge access and courier charges may incur additional costs.