Book online for Indian passport services
Move comes in after Gulf News report on crowds flouting social distancing rules
Crowds were flouting social distancing rules at BLS centres
The Indian passport and visa service centres in the UAE, run by BLS International, have introduced an online appointment booking system, Gulf News can reveal.
Last week, Gulf News reported on how huge crowds were flouting social distancing norms at BLS International centres. The website of the outsourced agency providing Indian visa and passport application processing services has now offered a provision to book appointments online.
Appointments can now be booked at 10 BLS centres across the UAE apart from two of its premium lounges, which already had the online booking facility.
A spokesperson of the Indian Consulate in Dubai confirmed to Gulf News that the company started the online appointment booking system through its website on June 15.
Walk-in slots for workers
“We will make a public announcement about the new appointment booking system soon,” he said.
However, a notice Gulf News found at the BLS Centre in Deira yesterday said, “Applicants are only accepted through appointments booked on BLS website www.blsindiavisa-uae. com with effect from June 13.”
The consulate official clarified that BLS centres would continue to offer some slots for walk-in customers using tokens to assist Indian workers, who may not be able to book appointment online.
Till the situation becomes normal and people get used to the online system, he said walk-in slots will be provided for a certain number of people.
Flouting social distancing
“Since there are several Indian workers who may not be able to book appointments online, we need to provide walkin services also through token system. We hope the online booking system will help in reducing the rush and to ensure social-distancing rules.”
Last week, Gulf News had published two reports highlighting the crowd at BLS Centres flouting social distancing norms and the need for an online appointment booking system.
Many applicants, who are seeking passport renewal these days, are those wishing to be repatriated due to the Covid-19 crisis and those waiting to stamp their new or renewed visas.