BLS International banned from MEA tenders for two years
Visa and passport services to continue uninterrupted. Analysts say the ban introduces a reputational challenge for BLS International, as the MEA’s move could affect future bidding confidence in both government and global contracts.

- In a clarification, BLS said that ongoing contracts with Indian Missions will remain operational, ensuring that visa, passport, and biometric services for Indians abroad continue without disruption. The company stated that the MEA order applies only to future tenders and will not affect existing agreements.
- For Indians living abroad, BLS confirmed that services will continue as usual. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can still apply for passport renewals, visa processing, and document attestation through existing BLS centers.
- While the MEA’s two-year restriction prevents BLS from bidding for new tenders with Indian Missions, existing projects will continue to run normally.
- For now, NRIs and Indian travelers can expect uninterrupted access to services such as visa processing and passport facilitation.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has imposed a two-year ban on BLS International Services Ltd, one of India’s leading outsourcing companies handling visa, passport, and consular services for Indian missions across the world. The order bars the firm from participating in any new MEA tenders during this period, though it will not affect its existing contracts.
According to the company, the action stems from certain court cases and complaints raised by applicants, but no specific details were disclosed.
The news triggered a sharp market reaction, with BLS International shares plunging nearly 11% on Monday before stabilizing at ₹299 by 1:20 p.m., reflecting investor concerns about the potential impact on future government contracts, The Economic Times reported.
In an official clarification, BLS assured that ongoing operations with Indian Missions remain unaffected, emphasizing that visa, passport, and biometric services for Indian citizens abroad will continue without disruption. The company noted that the MEA order pertains strictly to future tenders and does not alter existing agreements. Indian Missions contributed roughly 12% of BLS’s consolidated revenue during the first quarter of FY26.
Company Response
BLS International said it is reviewing the MEA directive and may pursue legal remedies if necessary. The firm described the development as “a procedural matter within the visa outsourcing sector” and expressed confidence in reaching “a constructive resolution in due course.”
Despite the regulatory setback, BLS maintains a strong financial position, reporting a 44% year-on-year growth in consolidated revenue during the first quarter of FY26. Recently, it secured a ₹2,055 crore contract from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to operate Aadhaar Seva Kendras — a deal expected to strengthen its domestic business and long-term revenue visibility.
Impact on NRIs and Overseas Applicants
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and other applicants using BLS centers abroad, services such as passport renewals, visa processing, and document attestation will proceed as usual. Indian embassies and consulates currently partnered with BLS are not expected to face disruptions. However, any new outsourcing contracts floated during the two-year ban period will likely be awarded to alternative vendors.
Market and Industry Outlook
Analysts note that while the MEA’s decision poses a reputational challenge for BLS International, the company’s diversified global presence across more than 60 countries should cushion its overall financial impact. Still, the debarment could influence future government and international tender opportunities.
For now, Indian travelers and NRIs can expect uninterrupted access to essential consular services. Going forward, BLS’s ability to uphold service quality, address regulatory issues, and leverage its global operations will be key to navigating this challenging phase.
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