Get ready for a significant upgrade in how Indian expats in the UAE access crucial consular services! The Indian missions will launch a unified Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) with 14 branches across the Emirates.
This exciting development, anticipated in the second quarter of this year, promises a more streamlined and efficient experience for the millions of Indians residing in the UAE.
This move will consolidate all passport, visa, and attestation services under one roof, simplifying the process and reducing wait times.
What’s Changing?
Currently, two separate service providers handle these essential tasks. BLS International manages passport and visa applications, while IVS Global processes document attestation. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Indian Consulate in Dubai directly handle some services.
This fragmented system is about to change. The ICAC will bring all these services together, creating a one-stop shop for Indian expats and foreign nationals seeking Indian visas.
Faster, More Transparent, and More Accessible Services
The new ICAC aims to provide comprehensive, quick, and transparent services in convenient locations. The focus is on efficiency, with strict requirements in place to minimize waiting times and enhance accessibility. Think of faster processing, clearer communication, and a more user-friendly experience.
Key Improvements and New Requirements
The ICAC will be strategically located in prime areas to improve accessibility. This move will reduce waiting times and simplify the application process for Indian expats and visa seekers.
Initially planned for launch in January 2024, the ICAC project faced delays due to technical reasons, leading to a revised tender with new service requirements.
The latest proposal mandates the selected service provider to introduce a dedicated website for booking appointments, a real-time application tracking dashboard, and strict deadlines for service delivery.
Key requirements include:
- Appointment availability: Service providers must ensure appointment slots are available within five working days.
- Processing time: Each application must be processed within 30 minutes.
- Accountability measures: Failure to meet deadlines will result in fines for the service provider.
- A new website for easy appointment booking.
- A real-time application tracking dashboard.
High Volume of Services to Be Managed
Indian missions in the UAE handled approximately 1.58 million transactions between January 2022 and December 2024. This translates to around 1,760 services processed daily, assuming 300 working days per year. The ICAC will enhance service efficiency and improve user experience.
Proposed Locations for ICAC Centers
The new service centers will be established in the following locations across the UAE:
- Abu Dhabi: Al Khalidiya, Al Reem, Musaffah
- Dubai: Bur Dubai, JLT/Marina
- Al Ain
- Ghayathi
- Sharjah: Al Majaz
- Ajman: Al Jurf
- Fujairah
- Umm Al Quwain
- Khor Fakkan: Corniche/Subara
- Kalba
- Ras Al Khaimah: Nakheel/Khujan/Mareed
Conclusion
The introduction of the Indian Consular Application Centre (ICAC) marks a major step toward improving consular services for Indian expatriates in the UAE. By consolidating services into a single entity, the Indian missions aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.
With a new tender process in motion, Indian expats can expect a seamless experience in managing their passports, visas, and attestation services in the near future.
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