Passport Fees in India: Charges, Payment Methods & Tips
Passport Fees in India: Charges, Payment Methods & Tips

Passports are crucial international travel documents and vital for identification. If planning to travel abroad, ensure your passport is ready, along with international travel insurance . Travel insurance, especially individual travel insurance , facilitates obtaining a duplicate passport in case of loss or damage. Upon return, you can apply for a new passport for a specific fee.
Navigating the passport fees in India can be a daunting task for travellers. Understanding these fees is crucial for planning your international travel, especially when considering travel insurance options that may cover unexpected delays or issues. With the right information, you can ensure a smooth application process and enjoy peace of mind as you prepare for your journey abroad. This guide aims to simplify the complexities surrounding passport fees in India, providing essential insights for prospective travellers.
Additionally, as you plan your international travel, consider how international travel insurance can protect you against unforeseen circumstances. With this comprehensive overview, you can navigate the passport application process with confidence and ensure a hassle-free experience as you embark on your global adventures.
Fees for Normal and Tatkaal Passports
The passport-issuing authority charges a passport fee to issue a new passport or renew the existing one. You can apply for passports in two ways- normal and Tatkal. Tatkal applications are prioritised, take less time, and charge higher fees than normal applications.
For new passports for individuals less than 15 years old, the fee for a 10-year validity passport with 36 pages is ₹1,500. For those aged between 15 and 18, a 5-year validity passport with 36 pages is ₹1,000, and a 10-year validity passport with 36 pages is ₹1,500. If opting for a 60-page passport in this category, the fees are ₹2,000 for five years and ₹2,000 for ten years. For individuals above 18 years, a 10-year validity passport with 36 pages is ₹1,500; for a 60-page passport, it's ₹2,000. Reissuing expired or lost/damaged passports also incurs different fees, ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,500, depending on factors such as age, validity, and pages. Additionally, reissuing passports for changes in personal details or deletion of ECR status follows a similar fee structure.
Effortless Transactions: How to Pay Your Fees for Passport Easily
You can fill out the application at the PassportIndia website and pay the passport fee there to book an appointment for your passport.
1. Debit and Credit Cards: All Visa and Master cards can be used to make passport fee payments online. However, banks charge an extra 1.5% and a service charge for all card transactions.
2. SBI Challan: You can also pay the passport fee using the SBI bank challan. Once the challan is generated, visit your nearest SBI branch to complete the payment. You can pay between 3 hours to 85 days of challan generation. It takes approximately two days for the payment to be cleared, after which you can book the appointment.
3. Internet Banking: You can use Internet banking through approved banks to pay the passport fees.
4. Cash or Wallet: If you are applying for Tatkal passport services, you will need to pay the regular passport fee while booking the appointment online. You will have to pay the additional Tatkal fee to expedite the process at the passport office on the day of your appointment. The Tatkal fee is usually an additional ₹2,000 that you can pay using cash or any wallet.
Passport Fee Calculator: Know How Much to Pay
You can use the fee calculator on the official passport application website to know how much you will need to pay for the service you are availing. You will need to select the application type, type of services, and applicant's age to calculate the approximate passport fee.
When planning your international travel from India, understanding the passport fees is crucial. A passport fee calculator can help you determine the exact amount you need to pay based on your specific requirements. In India, passport fees vary depending on factors such as the type of passport (normal or Tatkal), the duration of validity (10 years for adults and 5 years for minors), and whether you are applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one.
To use the calculator, simply input your details, including the type of service you need and any additional options, such as a passport booklet or e-passport. The calculator will provide you with a clear breakdown of the fees, ensuring you are well-prepared for your application.
Additionally, as you budget for your passport, consider the importance of travel insurance. International travel insurance can protect you against unexpected events during your journey, such as trip cancellations or medical emergencies. By knowing your passport fees and securing travel insurance, you can embark on your adventures from India with confidence and peace of mind.
Fees for New Passport Applicants
1. For less than 15 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal-₹1,500
• Tatkal- ₹3,000
2. Between 15-18 years, Validity: 5 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,000
• Tatkal-₹3,000
3. Between 15-18 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,500
• Tatkal- ₹3,500
4. Between 15-18 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 60
• Normal- ₹2,000
• Tatkal- ₹4,000
5. For above 18 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,500
• Tatkal- ₹3,500
6. For above 18 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 60
• Normal- ₹2,000
• Tatkal- ₹4,000
Fees for Reissuing Your Passport
1. Reissuing expired passports
a. For Less than 15 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,000
• Tatkal- ₹3,000
b. Between 15-18 years, Validity: 5 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,000
• Tatkal- ₹3,000
c. For above 18 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,500
• Tatkal- ₹3,500
d. For above 18 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 60
• Normal- ₹2,000
• Tatkal- ₹4,000
2. Reissuing Lost/Damaged passports
a. Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹3,000
• Tatkal- ₹5,000
b. Validity: 10 years, Pages: 60
• Normal- ₹3,500
• Tatkal- ₹5,500
3. Reissuing passports to Delete ECR, Change in Personal Details, or exhaustion of pages
a. For Less than 15 years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,000
• Tatkal- ₹3,000
b. Between 15-18 years, Validity: 5 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,000
• Tatkal- ₹3,000
c. Between 15-18 years and 18+ years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 36
• Normal- ₹1,500
• Tatkal- ₹3,500
d. Between 15-18 years and 18+ years, Validity: 10 years, Pages: 60
• Normal- ₹2,000
• Tatkal- ₹4,000
Paying Fees for Passport: Essential Tips and Key Considerations
• The paid passport fees can't be transferred to another applicant.
• Excess payment, if made by mistake, will be refunded.
• Click on Print Application Receipt after paying passport fees to generate the receipt and reference number. • There are no additional charges for payment from SBI Challan.
• You will be charged an extra one-time fee of ₹50 for SMS updates about your application status.
Here are 10 essential tips and key considerations for paying passport fees in India, especially for those planning international travel:
1. Understand Fee Structure:
Familiarise yourself with the different passport fees in India, including costs for normal and Tatkal services, as well as additional charges for e-passports.
2. Use the Official Portal:
Always pay your passport fees through the official Passport Seva website to avoid scams and ensure secure transactions.
3. Choose the Right Service:
Decide between normal and Tatkal services based on your urgency. Tatkal services come with higher fees but offer faster processing.
4. Check Payment Methods:
Passport fees can typically be paid online via credit/debit cards, net banking, or through designated banks. Choose the method that suits you best.
5. Keep Payment Receipts:
After making the payment, save the transaction receipt. This is crucial for tracking your application and resolving any issues.
6. Plan for Additional Costs:
Be aware of potential additional costs, such as document verification or police clearance, which may arise during the application process.
7. Consider Travel Insurance:
As you prepare for international travel, think about securing international travel insurance. This can protect you against unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip.
8. Verify Application Details:
Before submitting your application and payment, double-check all details to avoid delays or rejections due to errors.
9. Stay Updated on Changes:
Keep an eye on any changes in passport fees or policies by regularly checking the official website, as these can affect your application process.
10. Seek Assistance if Needed:
If you encounter difficulties while paying fees or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer support for guidance.
By following these tips, you can navigate the passport fee payment process smoothly and ensure a hassle-free experience as you prepare for your international travels.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Paying Passport Fees in India
When paying passport fees in India, avoiding common mistakes can save you time and ensure a smooth application process. Here are six key mistakes to steer clear of:
1. Incorrect Fee Selection:
One of the most common mistakes is selecting the wrong fee category (normal vs. Tatkal). Ensure you choose the appropriate service based on your urgency to avoid delays.
2. Incomplete Application:
Failing to fill out all required fields in the application form can lead to rejection. Double-check that all information is complete and accurate before submission.
3. Ignoring Payment Confirmation:
After making the payment, it’s crucial to save and print the payment confirmation receipt. Not doing so can create issues when tracking your application status.
4. Using Unofficial Payment Channels:
Avoid paying passport fees through unofficial websites or third-party services. Always use the official Passport Seva portal to ensure secure transactions.
5. Overlooking Additional Costs:
Be mindful of potential additional costs, such as document verification or police clearance fees, which may not be included in the initial payment.
6. Neglecting to Review Application Details:
Before final submission, review all details carefully. Typos or incorrect information can lead to processing delays or the need for reapplication.
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can streamline your passport application process and avoid unnecessary complications.
Conclusion
Applying for a passport needs a clear understanding of associated fees and payment methods. This article provides a detailed overview, simplifying the fee for new applicants and those seeking passport renewal. It also tells you how much your fee will be and various ways to pay them. You can easily calculate your fee on the passport application portal and see how much you need to pay if you want the passport issue process expedited. By exploring the nuances of normal and Tatkaal fees for your passport, coupled with essential tips for efficient payments, you can easily navigate the entire process.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is passport service free or paid?
Passport service is paid. The fee will depend on the type of your application.
2. What are Passport tatkal fees?
If you need your passport urgently, you will need to pay an additional fee of ₹2000 above the normal fee.
3. Can I opt for a challan payment if I don't have an SBI bank account?
Yes, you can. Generate the challan and make the cash payment at your nearest SBI branch.
Disclaimer The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
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