The New Fee Structure Explained
The government has implemented a significant increase in passport fees for the first time in over a decade. As of July 1, 2026, applicants for both fresh and re-issued passports will face higher charges across all categories. For a standard 36-page passport with
10-year validity, the normal processing fee has risen from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. If you need a larger, 60-page booklet, the cost has increased from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 for normal processing. These changes apply to both new applicants and those renewing their existing passports. The revision, outlined in the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, aims to cover rising operational costs and enhanced security features in the travel documents.
Urgent Need? Tatkaal Services Cost More
For those in a hurry, the expedited Tatkaal service remains an option, but it now comes at a higher price. The Tatkaal fee for a 36-page adult passport has been increased from ₹3,500 to ₹5,000. Similarly, the cost for a 60-page passport under the Tatkaal scheme has gone up from ₹4,000 to ₹6,000. It's crucial for applicants to note that this is the total fee, not an additional charge on top of the normal fee. Given the significant cost difference, planning your application well in advance can lead to substantial savings, especially for families applying together.
Checklist for Every Applicant
Before you begin your application on the Passport Seva portal, it's essential to double-check a few key details to ensure a smooth process under the new fee structure. First, confirm the type of service you need: a fresh passport, a re-issue (for expired passports, change in particulars, or exhausted pages), or a replacement for a lost or damaged passport. Fees for replacing a lost or damaged 36-page passport are now ₹5,000 for normal processing and ₹7,500 for Tatkaal. Also, decide on the booklet size (36 or 60 pages) based on your travel frequency. Finally, verify the applicant's age category, as fees for minors (under 18) are different. A new 36-page passport for a minor now costs ₹1,750.
How to Pay the Revised Fees
The process for payment remains streamlined through the official Passport Seva website. Online payment is mandatory for booking an appointment at any Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). You can use a credit or debit card (MasterCard, Visa, RuPay), internet banking, or UPI to pay the fee. The Passport Seva portal has a built-in Fee Calculator, which is an essential tool to use before initiating payment. This ensures you are paying the precise, updated amount for your specific application type, service, and booklet size, preventing payment errors and delays.
Discounts and Special Categories
While most fees have increased, some concessions remain. A 10% discount on the normal application fee is available for senior citizens (above 60 years) and for minors up to the age of 8. However, it's important to note this discount applies only to fresh applications, not to re-issues. Additionally, fees for other services like a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) have also been revised, now costing ₹750. Always verify your eligibility for any discounts on the official portal before making the final payment.
