Your child got selected for a student exchange programme abroad. You start filling the passport form. Then you read the news — passport fees are going up from July 2026. Every family paying for a passport will feel this change.
The Indian government has announced a big increase in passport fees starting July 4, 2026. The hike is about 15-20% across all categories. This means your family will pay Rs 500 more for a standard passport. Here is everything you need to know.
What Is the Passport Fees Increase in July 2026?
The Ministry of External Affairs announced new passport fees on July 4, 2026. The new fees apply to all applications submitted from July 4, 2026. The old fees will still apply if you submit your application before July 1.
The increase affects all categories — fresh passport, renewal, and Tatkal. Here is the full comparison:
Here is a quick table. It will show you the main differences in 30 seconds.
| Passport Type | Old Fee (Before July 2026) | New Fee (From July 2026) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 36-page (Fresh) | Rs 1,500 | Rs 2,000 | +Rs 500 |
| 60-page (Fresh) | Rs 2,000 | Rs 2,500 | +Rs 500 |
| 36-page (Renewal) | Rs 1,500 | Rs 2,000 | +Rs 500 |
| Tatkal 36-page | Rs 3,500 | Rs 4,000 | +Rs 500 |
| Tatkal 60-page | Rs 4,000 | Rs 4,500 | +Rs 500 |
| Minor (Under 18) | Rs 1,000 | Rs 1,500 | +Rs 500 |
Always check the official website for final fees: passportindia.gov.in
Who Is Affected by This Fee Increase?
The fee increase affects every person applying for an Indian passport. But some groups feel it more than others:
- Students planning to study abroad: They need a passport before applying for foreign universities
- Students in exchange programmes: Many programmes require a valid passport months before departure
- Families renewing expired passports: The old passport may expire before a child turns 18
- Tatkal applicants: People who need a passport urgently will pay Rs 500 more too
How to Apply Before the Price Hike — Step by Step?
If your child needs a passport, apply before July 4, 2026. Here is how:
- Visit the passport website: Go to passportindia.gov.in. Click on "New User Registration." Fill your basic details like name, date of birth, and email.
- Fill the application form: Select "Fresh Passport" or "Re-issue." Choose 36-page or 60-page. Enter your address and parents' details.
- Pay the old fee online: Pay Rs 1,500 (36-page) or Rs 2,000 (60-page) before July 1. Use UPI, net banking, or debit card. You will get a payment receipt.
- Book an appointment: Choose the nearest Passport Seva Kendra. Pick the earliest available slot. Carry all original documents on the appointment day.
- Attend the appointment: Reach 15 minutes early. Carry Aadhaar, birth certificate, school ID, and parent's passport. Your photo and fingerprints will be taken.
What Documents Are Needed for a Student Passport?
Make a checklist before going to the passport office. Missing one document can waste your day. Here is what you need:
- Aadhaar card (for applicant and parents)
- Birth certificate or school leaving certificate
- School ID card or bonafide certificate
- Parent's passport (if available)
- Address proof (utility bill or rent agreement)
- Two recent passport-size photos (white background)
What Are the 5 Mistakes your child must Avoid?
- Waiting until the last week: The passport office will be crowded in late June. Apply now to avoid long queues and delays.
- Wrong address on the form: Your passport address must match your Aadhaar. Even a small difference can cause rejection.
- Missing parent's presence: For minors, both parents must be present at the passport office. No exceptions.
- Forgetting old passport: If you are renewing, carry your old passport. The officer needs to cancel it before issuing the new one.
- Not checking the appointment: Print your appointment letter. Many people forget it and are turned away at the gate.
People Also Ask
Q: How much are Indian passport fees increasing in July 2026?
The fees have increased by about 15-20%. A fresh 36-page passport now costs Rs 2,000 instead of Rs 1,500.
Q: Can students get a passport at a lower fee?
No. Students do not get a separate fee category. All applicants pay the same fees. Minors under 18 get a slightly lower Tatkal fee.
Q: Should I apply before July 2026 to save money?
Yes. If you need a passport soon, apply before July 4, 2026. The old fees will apply. This can save you Rs 500.
Q: What documents do I need for a student passport?
You need Aadhaar card, birth certificate, school ID, and parent's Aadhaar and passport. For minors, both parents must be present.
Q: How long does it take to get a passport after applying?
Normal applications take 7 to 10 working days. Tatkal applications take 1 to 3 working days. Apply early if your programme starts soon.
The passport fees increase from July 2026 is real. Every applicant will pay Rs 500 more. If your child needs a passport for study abroad, exchange programme, or any future plan, apply before July 1. Save money and avoid the rush.
For students in Amroha, Joya, and nearby areas, JGPS (jgps.in) offers coaching for entrance exams that can open doors to study abroad opportunities. Planning ahead always pays off. Call +91 9997161490 to know more about our programmes.
