Passport Fees Increased from July 1, 2026: What Students Should Know

Like every year, lakhs of Indian students are planning to study abroad in 2026. Most of them will apply for a passport. Fee for an Indian passport has been increased by the GOI. Earlier, the fee for a passport with 36 pages was INR 1,500; now it is INR 2,500.

Indian students planning to study abroad should know about the latest passport fee changes. The Government of India has increased passport application fees. The new charges will apply from July 1, 2026.

If you are applying for a passport for the first time or renewing your passport, you may have to pay more.

New Passport Fees (From July 1, 2026)

Students should also note that replacing a lost or damaged passport will now cost more than before.

10% Discount for Some Applicants

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also announced a 10% discount on fresh passport applications for:

• Children up to 8 years

• Senior citizens above 60 years

This discount does not apply to passport reissue applications. Here is a detailed price list shared by the Ministry of External Affairs (Government of India)

Source: MEA India

Passport Price Increased: Why This Matters for Indian Students

If you are planning to study abroad in 2026 or later, these passport fee changes may increase your overall application costs. Here's what you should know:

1. Higher Passport Costs

If you need a new passport or a passport renewal before applying for a student visa, you will now pay INR 2,500 to INR 6,000, depending on the passport type and service selected. Include this expense in your study abroad budget.

2. Higher Fees for Important Documents

The fee for a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC), Surrender Certificate, and Global Entry Program (GEP) Verification is now INR 750. A PCC is required for student visa applications in many countries, including Germany, Canada, and the UK.

3. Tatkal Service Is More Expensive

If you need a passport urgently because of visa appointments, admission deadlines, or document corrections, the Tatkal passport service now costs significantly more. Applying early can help you avoid paying the higher Tatkal fee.

Passport is Not a Proof for Citizenship

A valid passport is the first document you need before applying for a student visa or university admission abroad. If you plan to study overseas in 2026 or later, apply for your passport early and include the revised fee in your budget.

The MEA also clarified that a passport is only a travel document. It is not proof of Indian citizenship.