Indian Embassy UAE Launches Three Passport Designs for Expats
Indian expats in the UAE are now witnessing a first-of-its-kind transition — three Indian passport designs are currently in circulation: the older booklet, the machine-readable version, and the new chip-enabled e-passport.
Announced by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi on October 28, 2025, this rollout under India’s Passport Seva 2.0 initiative introduces advanced security features, an embedded chip, and a modern design, while older formats remain valid until expiry.
The simultaneous use of three formats may cause minor variations in renewal fees, verification procedures, and travel formalities. The Indian community in the UAE — one of the largest globally — is encouraged to check their passport series, maintain valid documents, and consider upgrading to the new chip-based e-passport for faster immigration and improved security.
The Embassy and the Consulate in Dubai have also launched digital consular services to support the transition. Expats are advised to retain old passport copies, verify travel validity, and stay updated with official announcements regarding future upgrades and fee changes.
This milestone reflects India’s commitment to enhancing travel security and service accessibility for its global citizens.
