MEA Amends Passport Rules for Children Below 15 Years

The Ministry of External Affairs has notified the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, which amend the Passports Rules, 1980. The rules were published in the Gazette of India on 17 September 2026 and came into force on the same day. The amendment changes the validity period and fee structure for passport services for children below 15 years.

Validity of Passports for Minors

Under amended Rule 12(1A), an ordinary 36-page passport issued to a child below 15 years is valid for five years from the date of issue or until the child turns 18, whichever occurs earlier. The earlier rule framework under the Passports Rules, 1980, has been modified through the 2026 amendment.

Fee Revision and Application Charges

Rule 8 has been revised to state that passport application fees will be as specified in Schedule IV of the rules. The Ministry of External Affairs had already increased charges for fresh applications, renewals, and Tatkaal services with effect from 1 July 2026. For minors, a 36-page fresh or reissue passport under the normal category now costs ₹1,750, compared with ₹1,000 earlier.

Discount Provision for Young Children

A 10% discount on fresh passport applications continues for children below eight years of age. This discount does not apply to reissue applications.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Passports Rules, 1980, are the principal rules governing passport issuance in India.
• Rule 12 deals with passport validity provisions, including special provisions for minors.
• Rule 8 covers passport application fees under the rules.
• Schedule IV of the passport rules contains the fee schedule for different passport services.

Passport Types and Minor Provisions

An ordinary passport in India is generally issued in 36-page and 60-page formats. For children below 15 years, the amended rule specifically mentions the ordinary 36-page passport and links its validity to age and date of issue.