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This innovative initiative, named the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC), is set to revolutionize the way services are delivered to the Indian expat community in Dubai and the wider United Arab Emirates (UAE)
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The goal is to ensure faster and more efficient service provision, in line with strict guidelines from the Ministry of External Affairs
Starting from January 1, 2024, Non-Residential Indians (NRIs) residing in Dubai can look forward to a streamlined and efficient process for their visa and passport needs. The Indian Consulate and the Indian Embassy in Dubai currently provide these services through separate channels, but a recent report from onmanorama.com indicates plans to integrate these services under one unified agency, making life easier for Indian expatriates.
This innovative initiative, named the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC), is set to revolutionize the way services are delivered to the Indian expat community in Dubai and the wider United Arab Emirates (UAE). The goal is to ensure faster and more efficient service provision, in line with strict guidelines from the Ministry of External Affairs.
The ICAC will offer a comprehensive suite of services, including consular, passport, visa services, attestation of documents, and more, catering to both Indian nationals and foreigners applying for Indian visas. Instead of the current disjointed approach, where services are split between BLS International (for passport and visa services) and IVS Global (for attestation and other services), the ICAC will bring all these services together under one roof.
The ICAC will also offer the convenience of doorstep service, eliminating the need for applicants to spend hours waiting at offices. This new approach aligns with the aim of reaching out to customers at their places of residence, simplifying the entire application process.
To ensure the success of this endeavor, only institutions capable of handling the high volume of applications will be considered for opening ICAC centers. These centers will be strategically located across key UAE locations, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
The ICAC centers will operate six days a week and strive to process applications within two days. Applicants can conveniently schedule online appointments within four days. The ICAC aims to ensure that applicants can complete the entire application process, including submission and fee payment, within just 20 minutes.
- The introduction of the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) in Dubai and the UAE is set to simplify and enhance the experience for NRIs seeking visa and passport services
- This consolidation of services under one agency, coupled with doorstep service and a user-friendly online platform, promises to provide a more efficient and customer-friendly experience for the Indian expatriate community in the region
To enhance transparency and accessibility, the ICAC will maintain a user-friendly website available in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam. Applicants will be able to track the status of their applications online and receive responses to their inquiries via phone, email, or SMS.
In addition, the ICAC will implement a robust biometric system to collect detailed fingerprint and facial recognition data from applicants. This system will play a crucial role in collecting biometric information for the upcoming chip-installed e-passport rollout by the External Affairs Ministry, while also ensuring the security and confidentiality of applicant data.
The agency awarded the contract will have the responsibility of safeguarding sensitive applicant information, preventing any leaks to the public domain. Interested agencies have the opportunity to participate in the tender proceedings until August 28, with the contract set to be awarded on October 18.
As for service fees, the ICAC will charge up to 380 Dirhams for doorstep services and up to 300 Dirhams for Premium Lounge services, representing an increase from the current Premium Lounge service fee of 225 Dirhams. This fee structure is aimed at sustaining the quality and efficiency of the services provided by the ICAC.
The introduction of the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) in Dubai and the UAE is set to simplify and enhance the experience for NRIs seeking visa and passport services. This consolidation of services under one agency, coupled with doorstep service and a user-friendly online platform, promises to provide a more efficient and customer-friendly experience for the Indian expatriate community in the region.
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