MEA Updates Validity Norms for Children Under 15, Revises Application Fee

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) notified the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introducing targeted updates to passport application fees and validity terms for children. 

Signed by Joint Secretary and Chief Passport Officer BS Mubarak, the new regulations came into force immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette on September 15. 

Under the newly substituted Sub-Rule (1A) of Rule 12, a 36-page ordinary passport issued to a child under 15 years of age will now remain valid for 5 years from the date of issue OR until the child turns 18, whichever comes first types strictly



adhere to the updated rates specified in Schedule IV of the Passports Rules, 1980.

These changes amend the foundational Passports Rules, 1980, which were most recently updated in June 2026, bringing refreshed regulatory clarity to passport issuance for young applicants nationwide. 

Notably, the Ministry of External Affairs had revised fees for all passport-related services, with the new rates coming into effect from July 1. The hike will apply across categories, including fresh issuance, renewal, Tatkaal processing, replacement of lost or damaged passports, and Police Clearance Certificates (PCC).