India Launches Modern E-Passports in UAE

A New Era in Passport Applications: Electronic Chip-Embedded Indian E-Passports via the GPSP 2.0 Platform

A significant change is set to take effect on October 28, 2025, for Indian nationals residing in the United Arab Emirates. The Indian Consulate in Dubai has officially announced the launch of the new version of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP), termed PSP 2.0. This step aims to completely digitize and modernize passport services provided to overseas Indian citizens, with numerous tangible benefits and convenient features.

What does the new system mean for the Indian community?

The PSP 2.0 platform aims to make the passport application and renewal process more transparent, faster, and user-friendly. One of the key innovations is the introduction of e-passports embedded with electronic chips, which represents a new level of security and technology in passport issuance.

The chip in these e-passports digitally stores the owner's data and allows for quicker, safer border crossings at international airports. The e-document is compatible with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards, ensuring acceptance in any country worldwide.

No more long queues at BLS centers?

BLS International centers, which operate as external service providers for the Indian consulate, were frequently crowded, especially during peak seasons. One goal of PSP 2.0 is to address this issue: the new portal allows applicants to upload their photos, signatures, and required documents online from home. This significantly reduces processing time and waiting periods for in-person appointments.

The system allows applicants to upload photos and signatures compatible with ICAO standards, meeting international requirements. The consulate particularly stresses the need for applicants to carefully study the photo guidelines to avoid incorrect submissions.

Minor modifications? No extra cost involved

One frustrating element of the old system was the necessity to file a new form for minor modifications (e.g., typographical errors or formatting mistakes) often requiring additional fees. PSP 2.0 offers a solution: BLS centers can now make small corrections instantly and free of charge.

This feature saves both money and time for applicants, helping to avoid unnecessary steps.

How does the application process work?

After registering on the PSP 2.0 portal, the applicant must log in and initiate a new application. The completed form should then be printed, with an appointment booked via the official BLS International website.

For the scheduled appointment, the applicant must bring the printed form along with all necessary documents to the designated BLS center. There, the finalization of data and biometric identification takes place.

The complete digitalization of the process not only makes it quicker but also more accurate, reducing the possibility of administrative errors and simplifying tracking.

A significant milestone in service modernization

According to the Indian Consulate in Dubai, the introduction of PSP 2.0 is a significant milestone in modernizing consular services provided to Indian nationals. The new system aligns with India's digital transformation goals and follows the trend favoring more efficient electronic administration.

This is especially important for the large Indian community in the UAE, who travel frequently and maintain ongoing connections with their homeland. The new platform allows them to conveniently and quickly renew or apply for a new passport without intermediaries or lengthy administrative procedures.

The official portal address and accessibility

All applicants should initiate their passport application exclusively through the following official portal:

https://mportal.passportindia.gov.in/gpsp/AuthNavigation/Login

It is important for users to only use the official portal and avoid uncertified websites or services.

Concluding thoughts

The implementation of PSP 2.0 demonstrates how administration can become simpler, faster, and more transparent with the help of technology, even when living in another country. For the Indian community in the United Arab Emirates, this innovation brings not just conveniences but real, measurable improvements in everyday administration.

Digital transformation is not only India’s internal affair but a worldwide strategy – and Dubai once again is one of those locations where this innovation appears first.

(Source: Based on the announcement by the Indian Consulate in Dubai.)