In June this year, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) revised fees for all passport-related services, with the new rates coming into effect from July 1, 2026. Now, the MEA notified the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introducing updates to passport application fees and validity terms for children.

The changes came into immediate effect after being published in the Official Gazette on September 15.

Under the newly substituted Sub-Rule (1A) of Rule 12, a 36-page ordinary passport issued to children under 15 years of age will be valid for five years from the date of issue or until they turn 18, whichever is earlier.

A 36-page passport for applicants aged 18 or above will cost Rs. 2,500 for normal category; a 60-page passport will cost Rs. 3,500.

Charges have been raised for tatkaal services also. It will be Rs. 5,000 for a 36-page passport and Rs. 6,000 for a 60-page passport.

The hike applies across all categories, including fresh issuance, renewal, Tatkaal processing, replacement of lost or damaged passports, and Police Clearance Certificates.

The MEA has announced a 10% discount for fresh applications by children below eight years and senior citizens above 60 years. The concession does not apply for reissue cases. – editor@nrifocus.com