New passport rules and increased fee structure are coming into effect from July 1, 2026. In such a situation, minor mistakes made while filling the form can ruin the entire fee. Know what to do?
Passport Application Common Mistakes: If you are dreaming of going abroad or are going to get a new passport made for studies or business, then this news is most important for you. The Central Government has decided to implement ‘Passport (Amendment) Rules, 2026’ by making major changes in the Passport Rules, 1980. Under this, there has been a huge increase in the government fees for making and re-issuing a passport. This new fee structure is going to be implemented across the country from July 1, 2026. This means that if you make even a small mistake while filling the form and your application is rejected, you may lose thousands of rupees. Let us know how much the fees have increased now and which 5 big mistakes you should avoid while filling the form…
How expensive will passport be from July 1, 2026?
According to the new notification of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), earlier the fee for 36 page passport for Normal Passport was ₹ 1,500, which will now increase to ₹ 2,500. To get a 60 page passport made, now you will have to pay ₹ 3,500 instead of ₹ 2,000. If you are getting Tatkal Passport made, then instead of ₹ 3,500 for 36 pages, you will have to pay ₹ 5,000 from July 1. The fee for 60 pages has jumped from ₹4,000 straight to ₹6,000.
Which 5 mistakes should not be made while getting a passport?
Pay as per old rate
Many people fill the online form in advance and make payment later. Keep in mind, if you are paying fees on or after July 1, you will have to pay at the new increased rate only. Incomplete payment made as per the old fees will be rejected and your money may go on hold.
Error in validity of children’s passport
The situation regarding children’s passport has been clarified in the new rules. The validity of the passport of applicants below 18 years of age (Minors) will now be for a maximum of 5 years or till they turn 18 (whichever is earlier). While filling the form, choosing a validity period longer than this may directly lead to rejection of your form.
Difference in spelling of name and address proof
Passport is a very sensitive government document. The spelling of name and address in your Aadhar card, PAN card, mark sheet or electricity bill should be exactly the same as in the passport form. In case of a small mistake like ‘Kumar’ or ‘Kumari’ or missing surname, the passport officer cancels your appointment, wasting both your fees and time.
Selecting wrong documents for instant service
The government is now charging ₹5,000 to ₹6,000 for Tatkal passport, but it requires a specific and verified list of documents (like annexure and specific ID). If you do not have those prescribed documents, then apply in normal category only. If you apply immediately without proper documents, you will not get your money back.
Incorrect information or absence at the time of police verification
The most important step after filling the form is police verification. If you have given wrong information about your address or you have lived in more than one place in the last one year and have hidden its information, then the police sends ‘Adverse Report’. If this happens, not only does the passport stop, but heavy penalties can also be imposed.