UAE Indians Alert: What You Must Know About India’s New Chip-Enabled e-Passport Rollout

Indian expats in the UAE can now put all speculation to rest. The Indian Consulate has confirmed that the transition to the country’s new chip-enabled e-Passport will be completely seamless — with no fee revisions, no extra biometrics, and no change to the existing passport application process. The clarification comes after weeks of confusion among the Indian community regarding the upgraded passport system.

What’s New in the e-Passport?

India’s next-generation passport includes an embedded electronic microchip that securely stores personal data such as name, date of birth and photograph. Fully aligned with ICAO global standards, the chip ensures enhanced security, faster identity verification at airports, and stronger protection against forgery.

Despite the technological upgrade, authorities reassure that the applicant experience — from submission to collection — will remain unchanged.

Key Features of the New e-Passport

• No new biometrics required
• No change in passport fees
• Same Passport Seva portal and approved centers (including BLS International)
• Chip-based security for quicker immigration checks

Relief for UAE-Based Indians

On the occasion of the ongoing and future applications, officials have assured that there will be no interruptions in the process. The Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai have drawn people's attention to the fact that there is only one verified source of information and nothing else.

A Step Toward Smarter, Safer Travel

India has taken a step forward in its integration into the worldwide, standard digital passport systems — these provide not only better security but also faster immigration processing and a more secure travel experience for millions of Indian citizens stationed globally.