The Centre has officially announced the India passport fee hike 2026, marking the first major revision in passport charges after nearly 14 years. The new fee structure, issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) under the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, will come into effect from July 1.
The India passport fee hike 2026 applies to fresh applications, renewals, Tatkaal services, and even replacement of lost or damaged passports. The last revision was carried out in 2012.
Normal and Tatkaal Passport Charges Increased
Under the India passport fee hike 2026, the cost of a standard 36-page passport for adults has been increased from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 under the normal category. For Tatkaal applications, the fee has been raised from ₹3,500 to ₹5,000.
For a 60-page passport, applicants will now pay ₹3,500 under the normal category instead of ₹2,000, while Tatkaal charges have been revised to ₹6,000 from ₹4,000. The government stated that the India passport fee hike 2026 reflects updated operational costs and service improvements.
Higher Charges for Lost or Damaged Passports
As part of the India passport fee hike 2026, fees for replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged passports have also been increased. A 36-page replacement passport will now cost ₹5,000 under the normal scheme and ₹7,500 under Tatkaal.
Also read : India Hub-and-Spoke aviation model Begins with First International ‘Easy Connect’ Flight
Changes for Minors and Other Travel Documents
The India passport fee hike 2026 also impacts applicants below 18 years of age. A 36-page passport for minors will now cost ₹1,750 under the normal category and ₹4,250 under Tatkaal. For lost or damaged passports, minors will have to pay ₹4,250 and ₹6,750 respectively.
Additionally, the MEA has revised charges for Police Clearance Certificates, Surrender Certificates, and other travel-related documents, expanding the scope of the India passport fee hike 2026 across multiple services.
First Major Revision Since 2012
Officials confirmed that the India passport fee hike 2026 is the first increase in passport charges since 2012. The revised rates will apply to all applications submitted on or after July 1, regardless of booking dates.
The government stated that the revision aims to modernize service delivery, improve efficiency, and align passport-related charges with current administrative requirements.