Think about your monthly expenses for a moment. Have you noticed how your wallet is taking a hit from almost every direction lately? From the groceries in your kitchen to the latest iPads, video game consoles, and skyrocketing international airline tickets, the cost of living—and travelling—has scaled up rapidly over the last six months. Now, the price of your window to the world is joining the trend.
For the first time in nearly 14 years, India is implementing a sweeping passport fee hike across all major categories, meaning that delaying your renewal by even a single week is about to cost you a lot more. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced a significant hike in passport fees, effective July 1, 2026.
Indian Passport Fees Hike: What Changes?
In a significant update for
Indian travellers, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced a revision in passport fees, effective July 1, 2026. This marks the first increase in passport charges since 2012, reflecting rising operational costs amid growing demand for travel documents.
The hike affects fresh passports, reissues, Tatkal services, replacements for lost or damaged passports, and several ancillary services, impacting both residents and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
According to the official notification issued on June 20, 2026, under the amended Passports Rules, 1980, passport fees have been revised across categories.
Fresh or Reissued Passports (Normal Scheme)
- 36-page passport: ₹2,500 (earlier ₹1,500)
- 60-page passport: ₹3,500 (earlier ₹2,000)
Tatkal Passport Fees
- 36-page passport: ₹5,000 (earlier ₹3,500)
- 60-page passport: ₹6,000 (earlier ₹4,000)
These changes come as India issued around 13.9 million passports in 2025, highlighting the growing demand for passport services.
Replacement of Lost or Damaged Passports
36-page passport:
- Normal: ₹5,000
- Tatkal: ₹7,500
60-page passport:
- Normal: ₹6,000
- Tatkal: ₹8,500
Passport Fees for Applicants Below 18 Years
Fresh or reissued 36-page passport:
- Normal: ₹1,750
- Tatkal: ₹4,250
Replacement of lost or damaged passport:
- Normal: ₹4,250
- Tatkal: ₹6,750
What This Means for Indians Travelling Abroad?
Frequent travellers, NRIs, and families planning vacations or student trips abroad are feeling the pinch. Have you checked your passport expiry lately? Parents applying for minors or professionals needing urgent replacements may face noticeably higher budgeting this year. Travel experts recommend verifying documents early and submitting applications before the new rates kick in.
While the entry ticket is getting pricier, the actual power of holding an Indian passport is steadily climbing. Sitting at the 78th spot on the global Henley Passport Index as of May 2026, Indian travellers can now enjoy seamless visa-free entry to 27 countries.
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