If you need to renew your Indian passport, apply for a visa or obtain document attestation in the UAE, you may need to plan ahead. These services will be unavailable from June 26 to June 30 as the Indian Embassy transitions to a new service provider. M/s Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC will take over the operations from July 1, 2026.
What To Know
June 25 is the last day to apply through the current providers: BLS International and SGIVS Global will stop accepting passport, visa and attestation applications after this date.
No routine services from June 26 to June 30: New applications, appointments and regular consular services will not be processed during the transition period.
A new provider takes over on July 1: M/s Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC will begin operations and roll out 16 Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) across the UAE, along with a new appointment booking portal.
Help channels will remain open: Those requiring immediate assistance during the transition can contact the Indian mission through its helpline, WhatsApp service or email support channels.
What Happens To Existing Applications?
Applications already submitted will continue to be processed: Passport, visa, and document attestation requests lodged before June 25 will remain valid and will be handled through the existing service centres.
No action is required from applicants: Those who have already submitted their documents do not need to reapply or transfer their applications as part of the changeover.
Processing will continue during the transition: The temporary suspension applies to new applications and routine appointments, while applications already in the system will continue to move through the processing pipeline.
What Changes From July 1?
New applications will be handled by Al Hind: Anyone applying for a passport, visa, or attestation services from July 1 onwards will need to use the facilities and systems operated by M/s Al Hind Tours and Travel LLC.
More service locations across the UAE: The new provider is introducing 16 Indian Consular Application Centres (ICACs) across the seven emirates, giving applicants access to a wider network of service points.
A new appointment system will be introduced: Online bookings will move to a new portal launched by Al Hind. Applicants who previously used BLS platforms will need to create new accounts, as existing login details will not be transferred.
Service fees are expected to be standardised: Al Hind has proposed a flat service-fee structure aimed at simplifying the application process and reducing confusion over charges.
Application requirements remain unchanged: The switch in service providers does not affect eligibility criteria, documentation requirements or processing procedures set by India's Ministry of External Affairs.
FAQs
Q1. When will Indian passport, visa and attestation services be unavailable in the UAE?
Regular services will be suspended from June 26 to June 30, 2026, while the Indian Embassy transitions to a new service provider.
Q2. What happens if I have already submitted my application?
Applications submitted before June 25 will continue to be processed through the existing service centres. Applicants do not need to reapply or take any additional action.
Q3. Can I book an appointment during the transition period?
No. Routine appointments and walk-in services will not be available between June 26 and June 30. New appointments can be booked once the new system becomes operational.
Q4. Will I need a new account to book appointments after July 1?
Yes. Al Hind will introduce a new appointment portal, and existing BLS login credentials will not be transferred to the new system.
Q5. Are the passport and visa rules changing under the new provider?
No. The change only affects the service provider. Eligibility requirements, documentation rules, security checks and processing procedures set by India's Ministry of External Affairs will remain the same.
