What Has Changed and Why?
The Ministry of External Affairs has made a significant update to the passport application process. It is now mandatory to pay the passport fee online before you can book an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
This is a departure from the previous system where applicants could book a slot first. This change was implemented to streamline the appointment system and reduce the number of 'no-shows'. By ensuring only serious applicants who have paid the fee can book a slot, the system aims to improve the availability of appointments for everyone. This procedural shift is accompanied by a revision of passport fees, which came into effect on July 1, 2026. So, it's a dual update: a change in process and a change in fee structure.
The New Fee Structure Effective July 2026
As of July 1, 2026, the fees for obtaining an Indian passport have been increased. For an adult applicant, a new or re-issued 36-page passport now costs ₹2,500, up from the previous ₹1,500. If you need a larger, 60-page booklet, the fee is ₹3,500, revised from ₹2,000. The fees for the expedited Tatkaal service have also been updated. A 36-page Tatkaal passport now costs ₹5,000, while a 60-page one is ₹6,000. Fees for replacing lost or damaged passports have also been revised, starting at ₹5,000 for a 36-page booklet. There is some good news for certain applicants: a 10% discount on the basic fee is available for new applications from senior citizens (over 60) and for minors up to 8 years old. It is crucial to check the fee calculator on the official Passport Seva website before initiating payment.
Step-by-Step Guide to the New Process
Navigating the new system is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. First, you must register on the Passport Seva online portal and create your user ID. After logging in, fill out the application form for a fresh or re-issued passport. Once you have filled in all your details and submitted the form, an Application Reference Number (ARN) will be generated. The next step is to click on 'Pay and Schedule Appointment'. This is the key change. You can no longer schedule an appointment without first completing the payment. The portal will guide you to the payment gateway. After successful payment, the system will automatically allow you to see available slots and book your appointment at your chosen PSK or POPSK.
Accepted Payment Methods and Important Details
Online payment is mandatory and can be made through several methods. The portal accepts Credit/Debit Cards (MasterCard, Visa, and RuPay), Internet Banking, and UPI payments. The fee, once paid, is valid for one year from the date of the first appointment. This gives you a one-year window to secure an appointment and submit your application at the PSK. You are allowed to reschedule your appointment twice within this one-year period for a normal application. For Tatkaal applications, only one reschedule is permitted. It is important to note that the fee paid is non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another application (ARN).
Handling Tatkaal Applications and Common Issues
The process for Tatkaal applicants has also been streamlined. When applying under the Tatkaal scheme, you must now pay the entire Tatkaal fee online at the time of booking. Previously, only the normal fee was paid online, with the balance paid in cash at the PSK. This is no longer the case; the full amount is required upfront. If you encounter an issue where payment is debited from your account but the status on the portal shows as 'Failed', do not panic. The amount is typically refunded to your bank account within seven working days. You can check the status of your payment on the portal using the 'Track Payment Status' link before attempting to pay again.
