What is the fee for fast track passport in India?

Fast-Track Passport Service in India: Fees and Considerations

Obtaining a new Indian passport can be a time-sensitive process. To expedite the issuance of a passport, the Indian government offers a fast-track service called Tatkal. This service comes with an additional fee and reduced processing time.

Tatkal Fee

The Tatkal fee is a surcharge levied on applicants who wish to receive their passport faster. This fee is applicable to both adults and minors, regardless of the number of pages in their passport.

As of the latest update, the Tatkal fee for both adults and minors is ₹2,000. This fee is non-refundable, even if the passport application is rejected.

Processing Timeline

By opting for the Tatkal service, the processing timeline for a new passport is significantly reduced. Typically, regular passport applications take around 30-45 days to process. With the Tatkal service, the passport is usually issued within 1-3 working days.

Eligibility

The Tatkal service is available to all Indian citizens who meet the following criteria:

• The applicant is applying for a new passport, not a renewal.
• The applicant has a valid reason for expedited processing, such as urgent travel for medical emergencies, education, or employment.

Application Process

To apply for a Tatkal passport, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Passport Seva Kendra website (https://portal1.passportindia.gov.in/).
2. Click on the "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport" option.
3. Select "Tatkal" as the service type.
4. Fill out the online application form and pay the Tatkal fee online.
5. Submit the application form and required documents at your designated Passport Seva Kendra.

Note: Applicants are advised to book an appointment for the Tatkal service in advance to avoid long waiting times.

Conclusion

The Tatkal service provides a convenient option for Indian citizens who need to obtain a new passport quickly. However, it comes with an additional fee. Applicants should weigh their need for expedited processing against the cost before opting for the Tatkal service.