Understanding the fee structure for Indian passports is crucial for a smooth application or renewal process. Using a passport fee calculator, you can easily estimate the costs based on factors like the applicant’s age, type of service, number of pages in the booklet, and the urgency of processing. For instance, Tatkal services, which expedite the process, incur higher charges than the standard scheme. Additional fees may also apply for reissuing lost or damaged passports. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) ensures transparency and uniformity in setting these fees. Whether you are applying for a fresh passport, reissuing one, or updating details, a passport fee calculator helps you plan better and avoid delays in your application process.
Understanding passport fees
Indian passport fees are structured based on the applicant's age, service type, and booklet size. These fees apply for fresh applications, renewals, or reissues. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) ensures that the fee structure remains transparent and standardised.
For urgent requests, Tatkal passports carry higher fees due to quicker processing times. Additionally, the fee structure varies for adults, minors, and children under 15 years.
Different types of passport fees
Here is a breakdown of the various passport fees:
For applicants over 18 years of age:
- Fresh passport (36 pages): Rs. 1,500 (Normal), Rs. 3,500 (Tatkal)
- Fresh passport (60 pages): Rs. 2,000 (Normal), Rs. 4,000 (Tatkal)
For applicants aged 15–18 years:
- Fresh passport (36 pages): Rs. 1,500 (Normal), Rs. 3,000 (Tatkal)
For applicants under 15 years of age:
- Fresh passport (36 pages): Rs. 1,000 (Normal), Rs. 3,000 (Tatkal)
For reissue of passport:
- Reissue (36 pages): Rs. 1,500 (Normal), Rs. 2,000 (Tatkal)
- Reissue (60 pages): Rs. 2,000 (Normal and Tatkal)
Additional fees may be applicable for services such as reissuing lost or damaged passports, updating personal details, or when the booklet pages are exhausted.
Using a passport fee calculator can help you determine these costs accurately, allowing you to plan better and avoid unexpected delays. Whether you are applying for a fresh passport or handling reissue-related requirements, knowing the exact fees ensures a hassle-free experience.
How to use the passport fee calculator?
The Passport fee calculator is an online tool available on the Passport Seva website that allows you to calculate the exact fee you need to pay based on your application type. It is quick and simple to use. Here are the simple steps to use the Passport fee calculator:
- Visit the official Passport Seva website
Go to the Passport Seva portal and find the "Fee Calculator" under the "Information Corner" section.
- Choose the application type
Select Passport, Police Clearance Certificate, Identity Certificate, or Surrender Certificate.
- Select the service type
Choose between Fresh Issue or Reissue.
- Fill in additional details
Select your age, reason for reissue (if applicable), number of pages required, and preferred scheme (Normal or Tatkal).
- Click on "calculate fee"
The calculator will show you the fee that applies to your specific circumstances.
Payment methods for passport fees
Once you know the required fee, it is time to pay. The passport application fees can be paid online using various methods. These include:
- Internet banking (State Bank of India and its associate banks)
- Debit/credit card (VISA/MasterCard)
- SBI bank challan
It is important to remember that payment is mandatory before you can schedule an appointment for passport submission. The fees are non-refundable, even if you fail to make an appointment within one year from the date of payment.
Frequently asked questions about fees
Can I get a refund if I pay the fees but cannot schedule an appointment?
No, the fees are non-refundable once paid, whether or not you book your appointment. If you do not schedule an appointment within a year, your payment will not be refunded.
What is the difference between reissue and renewal of a passport?
A renewal is a simple extension of a passport's validity, while a reissue involves issuing a new passport due to circumstances like expiry, loss, or damage.
Can I pay the fees online?
Yes, the passport application fees must be paid online through internet banking, debit/credit cards, or SBI Challan.
Fee waivers and discounts
While there are no fee waivers for regular passport applications, certain conditions may provide some relief:
No fees for diplomatic and official passports
Holders of Diplomatic or Official passports are exempt from paying passport fees.
Refunds for excess payments
If you make multiple payments for a single application, the excess payment will be refunded.
Refund process
Refunds for excess payments are handled by the regional passport officer.