Significant Increase in Passport Fees Announced by Government

The government has announced a substantial 67% increase in passport fees, the first adjustment in 14 years. This change, effective from July 1, 2026, follows a comprehensive review of operational costs and service delivery. The application fee for a standard 36-page passport will rise from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. Previous fee adjustments were made in 1971, 1980, 1993, 2002, and 2012. This article delves into the reasons behind the increase and its implications for citizens.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2026, 23:28 IST

Government Announces Passport Fee Hike

On Friday, the government revealed that the recent 67% increase in passport fees is the first adjustment in 14 years. During a session in the Lok Sabha, the government explained that the fees for passports and related services are periodically revised based on a comprehensive review of operational needs and service delivery improvements. Kirti Vardhan Singh, the Minister of State for External Affairs, stated in a written response to a query that the last fee adjustment occurred in 2012, and over the past 14 years, the costs associated with various services and the expenses of providing these services have risen, necessitating this fee revision.

Recently, amendments were made to the Passport Rules of 1980, resulting in changes to the fee structure. Under these new regulations, the application fee for a standard 36-page passport has been increased from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500. These revised rules will take effect from July 1, 2026.

The minister also noted that previous adjustments to passport fees occurred in the years 1971, 1980, 1993, 2002, and 2012.