India is set to appoint a new provider for passport, visa, and consular services in the UAE, with the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi confirming that existing operators BLS International Services Limited and SGIVS Global will continue handling applications until June 30, 2026.
India Announces New Visa And Passport Service Provider In UAE; Key Changes Explained
The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi has announced a change in its outsourced passport, visa and consular services in the UAE, with Al Hind Tours and Travels LLC set to take over from July 1, 2026 after the current providers complete their term
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The Indian Embassy has appointed Al Hind Tours and Travels LLC to handle passport, visa and consular applications in the UAE from July 1, 2026. Applicants will be required to submit their requests through centres run by the company after the change comes into effect.
Applicants Advised To Follow Official Updates
People applying for passport, visa or consular services before July 1 have been told to continue using the existing BLS International and SGIVS Global centres. The Embassy said details relating to the switchover would be shared as the transition date approaches.
Applicants have also been advised to follow updates issued by the Embassy and Consulate as the transition progresses. Officials said steps are being taken to minimise any impact on services during the switch to the new provider.
People applying for passport, visa or consular services before July 1 have been told to continue using the existing centres Freepik
What Applicants Should Know
Current arrangements remain unchanged: BLS International and SGIVS Global will continue accepting and processing passport, visa and consular applications until June 30, 2026.
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New provider from July: Applications submitted from July 1, 2026, onwards will be handled through centres operated by Al Hind Tours and Travels.
Range of services: The new provider will manage a range of consular services, including passport issuance and renewals, visa applications, Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) services, Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs), and document attestation.
Centre locations to be announced: Details of the 16 service centres, along with operating hours and applicable service fees, are expected to be announced by the Indian mission ahead of the transition. Applicants are advised to monitor official updates for the latest information.
Follow official sources: Applicants are encouraged to check updates issued by the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai for the latest information on the transition and future service arrangements.
The new provider will manage a range of consular services, including passport issuance and renewals Shutterstock
FAQs
When will the new service provider take over?
Al Hind Tours and Travels LLC will begin handling Indian passport, visa and consular services in the UAE from July 1, 2026.
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Who is currently handling applications?
Until June 30, 2026, applications will continue to be processed by BLS International and SGIVS Global.
What happens to applications submitted before the change?
Any applications submitted before July 1, 2026 will continue to be processed by the existing service providers under the current system.
Which services will be covered under the new arrangement?
The services include passport issuance and renewals, visa applications, OCI cards, Police Clearance Certificates (PCC), and document attestation.
Where can applicants get official updates?
Updates will be issued through the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai’s official communication channels.
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