India Updates Passport Rules for Minors Under 15

India has recently updated its passport rules for minors under the age of 15. These changes, which went into effect on September 17, 2026, alter the validity period for ordinary 36-page passports issued to children. The update aims to simplify the renewal process and align with international standards.

The primary change allows these passports to remain valid for a longer duration. Previously, passports for minors had different renewal timelines. Now, the validity is set for five years from the date of issue or until the child turns 18, whichever comes first. This means a child who receives a passport at age 12 could potentially keep it until they are 17, provided the five-year mark isn’t reached first.

Key Changes to Passport Validity

The Ministry of External Affairs introduced these revisions through the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026. This amendment specifically targets Rule 12(1A) of the Passports Rules, 1980. The core of the update is the extension of the passport’s life for young applicants.

Before this change, a passport issued to a child under 15 had a different expiration policy, often requiring renewal by age 15. The new rule removes this mid-teen renewal requirement. If a child reaches the age of 18 before the five-year validity period ends, their passport will expire on their 18th birthday. This adjustment simplifies the process for parents and guardians by reducing the frequency of passport renewals for younger children.

Fee Adjustments for Passport Services

Along with the changes in validity, the fees for passport services have also been revised. These adjustments apply to both normal and Tatkaal (expedited) services for 36-page passports. The increase in fees is part of a broader update to the passport service structure.

The fee for a standard 36-page fresh or reissue passport has risen from ₹1,000 to ₹1,750. For those needing expedited service through the Tatkaal scheme, the fee has increased from ₹3,000 to ₹4,250. These new rates reflect the updated service costs and administrative procedures.

Special Concessions Remain for Certain Applicants

Despite the general fee increase, a concession remains for specific groups. Children below the age of 8 and senior citizens above 60 years of age will continue to receive a 10% discount on fresh passport applications. However, this discount does not apply to reissue cases for these age groups. This provision ensures that the most vulnerable and elderly applicants still benefit from reduced costs for their initial passport applications.

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