Indian Embassy in UAE warns expats against fake visa and passport appointment scams
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have issued a stern warning to the public against fraudulent agencies and middlemen claiming to offer appointments for passport, visa, and attestation services. Authorities clarified that any such campaigns or claims made
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have issued a stern warning to the public against fraudulent agencies and middlemen claiming to offer appointments for passport, visa, and attestation services. Authorities clarified that any such campaigns or claims made
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have issued a stern warning to the public against fraudulent agencies and middlemen claiming to offer appointments for passport, visa, and attestation services. Authorities clarified that any such campaigns or claims made
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have issued a stern warning to the public against fraudulent agencies and middlemen claiming to offer appointments for passport, visa, and attestation services. Authorities clarified that any such campaigns or claims made by unauthorised individuals or agencies are completely fake.
The diplomatic missions urged UAE residents to remain vigilant and report any instances of third parties misleading applicants or charging exorbitant fees for booking appointments. Such incidents should be reported immediately to the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General in Dubai through their official channels. The public has been advised to rely solely on official communications and avoid falling prey to scammers.
Direct consular services now active
This warning comes in the wake of the diplomatic missions ending their outsourcing agreements with BLS International and SGVS Global, which previously managed these consular services. Since 1 July, all passport, visa, and attestation services are being processed directly by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai through their own offices.
No fees for appointments
The embassy has reiterated that there is absolutely no fee required to book appointments for passport, visa, or attestation services. Members of the public can book their appointments directly and free of charge through the official government website. No third-party agencies or individuals have been authorised to manage bookings, and applicants are strongly advised not to pay anyone for scheduling appointments.