The New Fee Structure Explained
The Ministry of External Affairs has implemented a significant revision to the passport fee structure, impacting all categories of applications. For adults (18 years and above), the cost for a new or re-issued 36-page passport under the normal scheme
has risen from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. If you require a larger 60-page booklet, the price has increased from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500. These changes, part of the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, are attributed to rising operational costs and enhanced security features in the new passports. The new rates apply to all applications submitted on or after July 1, 2026.
A Look at the Tatkaal Surge
For those in a hurry, the expedited Tatkaal service has seen a substantial price jump. The fee for an adult's 36-page passport under the Tatkaal scheme is now ₹5,000, up from the previous ₹3,500. Similarly, a 60-page Tatkaal passport now costs ₹6,000, a significant increase from ₹4,000. This sharp rise makes last-minute renewals a much costlier affair. For a family needing urgent passports, these expenses can accumulate quickly, turning an unforeseen trip into a major financial challenge. Proper planning to avoid the need for Tatkaal services is now more critical than ever.
How Families and Minors Are Affected
Families, particularly larger ones, will feel the pinch of these revised fees. Renewing passports for multiple members simultaneously will require a larger outlay. The fee for a minor's passport (below 18 years) has also been increased. The cost for a fresh or re-issued 36-page passport for a minor is now ₹1,750 under the normal scheme. While a 10% concession on the base fee for fresh applications still exists for children below 8 years and senior citizens above 60, this discount does not apply to re-issues or Tatkaal services. A family of four, consisting of two adults and two children, would now have to budget at least ₹8,500 for standard renewals, compared to roughly ₹5,000 previously.
The High Cost of Lost or Damaged Passports
Replacing a lost or damaged passport has become considerably more expensive, adding another layer of financial caution for travellers. The fee to replace a lost or damaged 36-page adult passport is now ₹5,000 under the normal scheme, with the Tatkaal option costing ₹7,500. For a 60-page replacement, the normal fee is ₹6,000, and the Tatkaal fee is a steep ₹8,500. These punitive costs underscore the importance of safeguarding your passport. For a family, the loss of even one passport can now create a significant and unplanned financial burden.
Budgeting Tips for Your Family's Passports
With these new costs, proactive financial planning is essential. First, check the expiry dates on all family members' passports now. Create a calendar reminder for six to nine months before each expiry date. This allows ample time for the normal renewal process, avoiding the expensive Tatkaal fees. If multiple passports are expiring in the same year, consider staggering the applications over a few months to spread out the cost. You can also start a small, dedicated fund for document renewals. Setting aside a small amount each month can soften the blow when it's time to pay the fees. Always use the official Passport Seva portal to verify the exact fee and avoid third-party services that may add extra charges.
