Applying for a passport in India involves specific fees that vary based on factors such as the type of application, age of the applicant, and the urgency of processing. Understanding these costs is crucial for a smooth application process.
Standard Passport Fees
The standard passport booklet contains 36 pages. For adults aged 18 and above, the fee for a fresh passport or reissue under the normal scheme is ₹1,500. Applicants can opt for a ‘jumbo’ passport booklet with 60 pages at a fee of ₹2,000.
Fees for Minors
For minors below 18 years, the fee for a 36-page passport with a validity of 5 years or until the minor turns 18, whichever is earlier, is ₹1,000.
Tatkaal Scheme Fees
The Tatkaal scheme offers expedited processing for urgent passport needs. Applicants must pay the standard passport fee plus an additional Tatkaal fee of ₹2,000. For instance, an adult applying for a 36-page passport under the Tatkaal scheme would pay a total of ₹3,500.
Payment Methods
Applicants can pay passport fees online using credit/debit cards (MasterCard and Visa), internet banking through State Bank of India (SBI) and other banks, or SBI Wallet Payment. For Tatkaal applications, only the normal fee is paid online; the additional Tatkaal fee is payable in cash at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) upon acceptance of the application.
Additional Considerations
- Non-Refundable Fees: All passport application fees are non-refundable.
- Senior Citizens and Children Discounts: Senior citizens and children below 8 years may receive a 10% discount on passport fees.
- Fee Validity: Payments are valid for one year from the date of payment. If an appointment is booked, the validity extends to one year from the first appointment date.
Conclusion
Being informed about the various passport application fees in India ensures a hassle-free application process. Always refer to the official Passport Seva website or consult the nearest PSK for the most current information.
FAQ
- What is the fee for a new adult passport under the normal scheme?
- The fee is ₹1,500 for a 36-page passport with a 10-year validity.
- How much does a minor’s passport cost?
- For minors below 18 years, the fee is ₹1,000 for a 36-page passport valid for 5 years or until the minor turns 18, whichever is earlier.
- What are the charges for the Tatkaal scheme?
- An additional ₹2,000 is charged over the standard fee for expedited processing under the Tatkaal scheme.
- Can I pay the passport fee online?
- Yes, fees can be paid online using credit/debit cards, internet banking, or SBI Wallet Payment.
- Are passport application fees refundable?
- No, all passport application fees are non-refundable.
