Indian ePassport with Chip Now Available for UAE Expats: Should You Switch?

Indian ePassport UAE rollout 2025 marks a major upgrade in travel security but replacing your existing passport is not mandatory until expiry. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs and Indian diplomatic missions in the UAE started issuing chip-embedded ePassports from October 28 under the upgraded Global Passport Seva Programme (GPSP 2.0), accessible through a new online application portal.​

Unlike traditional passports, the ePassport features an RFID chip storing biometric and personal data compliant with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, enhancing tamper-proof security and speeding immigration clearances worldwide. The ePassport is visually identifiable by a gold chip symbol on the cover and uses a new number format with two letters followed by six digits.

Application processes are streamlined through pre-uploading of ICAO-compliant photos, digital signatures, and documents, reducing wait times at BLS centres. Minor corrections can now be made by service providers without extra fees, further easing the applicant experience.

While it is not compulsory to switch from your existing passport immediately, all new applications, renewals, and related services must be processed through the new GPSP 2.0 portal, ensuring a modern, transparent, and secure consular service for the Indian diaspora in the UAE.

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