New passport application rule for Indian expats in UAE from Sep 1

The Indian Consulate in Dubai has issued a new rule for Indian expats in the UAE that will come in effect next month, September 1.

The rule requires updated standards for photographs, which means most applicants will need to take new photographs when submitting passport applications. The consulate’s move follows a directive from India’s Ministry of External Affairs



(MEA).

“From September 1, 2025, ICAO-compliant photographs will be required for submitting passport applications,” the directive said.

The Press Wing of the Indian Consulate confirmed in Dubai that passport applications will only be accepted with photographs meeting ICAO standards. The wing clarified that this requirement is part of ICAO’s international travel regulations.