The First Fee Hike in Over a Decade
The Ministry of External Affairs has announced the first major revision to passport fees in over a decade, with the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, coming into effect on July 1. This isn't just a minor adjustment; the changes are significant across
the board, affecting everything from fresh applications to renewals and expedited Tatkaal services. For example, the cost for a standard 36-page fresh or reissued passport has increased from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. This hike is attributed to rising operational costs and the integration of enhanced security features in newer passports, including the rollout of e-passports.
Breaking Down the New Costs
Understanding the new fee structure is key to budgeting for your travel documents. Here’s a look at the main changes for adult applicants: a standard 36-page passport (fresh or reissue) now costs ₹2,500, up by ₹1,000. If you're a frequent flyer and need a 60-page jumbo booklet, the price has risen from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500. These changes apply to both new passports and renewals. The fee increases are even more pronounced for those needing a passport in a hurry.
Is the Tatkaal Service Worth the Extra Cost?
The convenience of the Tatkaal (expedited) service now comes at a significantly higher price. An urgent 36-page passport will set you back ₹5,000, a steep jump from the previous ₹3,500. For a 60-page Tatkaal passport, the fee is now ₹6,000, up from ₹4,000. While this service is invaluable for last-minute travel emergencies, the new pricing makes planning ahead more important than ever. If your travel dates are flexible, applying through the normal channel well in advance can save you a substantial amount of money. The processing time for a regular passport is typically between 15 to 25 working days, whereas a Tatkaal passport can be issued in as little as 1 to 3 days after document verification.
What About Minors and Lost Passports?
Families planning to travel together will also feel the impact. The fee for a minor's passport (below 18 years) has also been revised. More dramatically, the cost for replacing a lost or damaged passport has increased significantly. A replacement 36-page passport now costs ₹5,000 under the normal scheme, while a 60-page replacement costs ₹6,000. This underscores the importance of keeping your travel documents safe. However, there is some relief: a 10% discount on the normal fee for fresh applications continues for children up to 8 years old and senior citizens over 60.
Plan Ahead to Avoid the Pinch
The most straightforward advice for any aspiring traveller is to be proactive. The first step is to check the expiry date on your current passport. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel dates. If your passport is nearing expiry or you're applying for the first time, starting the process early is the best way to avoid the higher Tatkaal fees. The entire application process can be managed online through the Passport Seva portal, from filling out the form to booking an appointment, making it more user-friendly than ever.
