How to get a passport for your child: What is the process following the rule changes?
How to get a passport for your child: What is the process following the rule changes?
Rules regarding passports for children have been updated. Changes have been made to the validity period and fees for passports issued to children under the age of 15. Here is what you need to know about the application process, required documents, and the new fee structure.
If you plan to travel abroad and take your children along, it is essential to be aware of the regulations concerning children's passports. Recent changes have been made to the rules governing children's international travel, specifically regarding passport validity and fees. If you are planning to apply for a passport for your child, understanding these rules beforehand will be beneficial.
Rules for children under 15 years of age
According to the new regulations, a standard 36-page passport issued to a child under 15 will remain valid for five years or until the child turns 18—whichever comes first. This means the passport's validity is determined by the child's age. These rule changes came into effect on September 17, 2026.
How to apply for a passport?
To obtain a passport for your child, you must first register online on the Passport Seva Portal. You will need to provide necessary details about the child as well as information regarding both parents. After this, you must pay the application fee and schedule an appointment.
On the scheduled appointment date, the child and both parents must visit the designated Post Office Passport Seva Kendra. All necessary processing steps will be completed at the center.
What documents are required?
The documents that may be required to obtain the passport include the child's birth certificate, Aadhaar card, and proof of address, as well as the parents' documents (such as PAN and Aadhaar). In some cases, a copy of the parents' passports may also be required. However, the required documents may vary depending on the child's specific circumstances.
What is the passport fee?
The fee for a 36-page passport for children under the age of 15 is ₹1,750, whereas the fee for the Tatkaal (expedited) service is ₹3,000. A 10% fee concession is also granted for new passport applications for children under the age of eight.
Therefore, before applying for your children, carefully verify their age, all necessary documents, and the applicable fees; this will ensure a hassle-free application process.
