If you are planning to get a new passport made or renew the old passport, then from July 1, 2026, you will have to pay higher fees than before. The Central Government has increased the fees for passport and Tatkal service by amending the Passport Rules, 1980. The new rates will be applicable across the country from July 1.
Both normal and Tatkal passports become expensive
According to the new notification, the fee for 36 page ordinary passport has been increased from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,500. At the same time, to get a passport made under Tatkal service in the same category, now Rs 5,000 will have to be paid, which was earlier Rs 3,500.
Similarly, the fee for 60 page ordinary passport has been increased from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,500. Whereas for a 60 page Tatkal passport, now Rs 6,000 will have to be paid. Earlier its fee was Rs 4,000.
No change in validity of passport
Despite the increase in fees, the validity of the passport will remain the same as before. Passports issued to applicants aged 18 years and above will remain valid for 10 years. At the same time, for children below 18 years of age, the validity of the passport will be till the completion of 5 years or 18 years of age, whichever is earlier.
Children and senior citizens will get relief
The government has also given relief to some categories of applicants. Children up to 8 years of age and senior citizens above 60 years of age will get 10 percent fee waiver on applying for a new passport. However, this exemption will be only for new passports. This facility will not be applicable on re-issue or renewal of passport.
Please check the new fees before applying
The Ministry of External Affairs has advised people applying for passport to get information about the new fee rates before applying after July 1. Those who have not yet applied will have to pay as per the revised fees. In such a situation, if you are planning to get a passport soon, then prepare your budget keeping the new fees in mind.
