What are Passport Fees?
Passport fees, as the name suggests, are the amount that the government charges from applicants to process their passport application. The fee includes the entire application process, from start to finish, including application, documentation, verification, and delivery of the passport.
Types of Passport Fees
The passport application fee varies depending on several factors, including the type of passport you are applying for, your age, and the service type. Let’s discover these factors in detail for a better understanding:
1. Passport Application Type
The passport fee varies depending on the type of application you are applying for, such as:
- Fresh Passport
- Identity Certificate
- Surrender Certificate
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
2. Passport Applicant Age
The passport fee also varies depending on the age of the applicant. Here’s the age bracket for which the fee might vary:
- Applicants below 15 years of age
- Applications between 15 and 18 years
- Applications above the age of 18 years.
3. Passport Service Type
While applying for a passport, there are primarily two types of services offered that influence the fee:
- Fresh Passport Issue: This type of service is available for applicants applying for a passport for the first time.
- Reissue of a Passport: This type of service is available for applicants who are applying for a renewal or replacement of an existing passport.
4. Passport Application Scheme
Just like service type, there are primarily two types of passport application schemes that influence the fee:
- Normal Passport Application: As the name suggests, this is the standard passport application that follows the regular process.
- Tatkaal Passport Application: A Tatkaal passport is usually applied for emergency situations where the applicant wishes to speed up the process. Tatkaal passport applications are also called fast-track applications, and their fees are higher than those of normal passport applications.
Passport Fees for Different Types of Passport Applications
Here’s a detailed table showcasing the passport application fee for different categories
Step-by-Step Guide to Pay Passport Fee
You can pay the passport fee either online or offline. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:
Online Passport Fee Payment
- Visit the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs.
- Complete the registration process.
- Log in to your account and select the passport service you want, such as a new passport renewal.
- Select the payment method and complete the payment.
- On a successful fee payment, you will receive a confirmation email.
- Once you have received confirmation, please book an appointment slot for an interview at your nearest PSK/RPO.
Offline Passport Fee Payment
- Get a copy of the passport application form from the nearest RPO or online.
- Fill in the form and select the payment method.
- Complete the payment and get a payment receipt for future purposes.
- Select the payment method and complete the payment.
- On a successful fee payment, you will receive a confirmation email.
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Necessary Things to Know Before Applying for a Passport
If you are applying for a passport, here are a few things that you must know for a seamless experience:
1. Non-Refundable Fees
The fee made towards the passport application is not refundable even if your appointment has not been scheduled. In case you have made multiple payments, your fee is refunded accordingly by the RPO.
2. Get Your ARN
Make sure to apply for a printed copy of the application receipt to obtain the ARN (Application Reference Number) and receipt.
3. Documents Required at PSK
Ensure you carry a printed copy of the application form and the application receipt, along with your ARN, to your PSK.
4. Passport Fee Transfer
Your passport fee is not transferable once paid.
5. Appointment Reschedule
You are allowed to reschedule your appointment only twice. Post that you have to pay the fee again.
Summing Up
The passport application has become simpler than ever. All you need to do is apply online, make the payment and book a slot for your interview. Be ready to finally head to your dream destination with your passport in your hand.
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