New passport rules for Indians: Validity, fees and age-wise changes explained

In a recent update, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has introduced some major changes to India’s passport rules. A new validity framework for passports has been introduced for children below 15 years of age. Under the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2026, an ordinary 36-page passport issued to a child below 15 will be valid for five years from the date of issue or until the child turns 18, whichever comes earlier. The amendment notified in September is now in force. The new changes are not limited to young children as passport validity and fees differ across age groups, including teenagers, adults and senior citizens.Here is everything Indian travellers need to know.Children below 15: Five years or until 18It’s an important change for families planning international holidays, as a child’s passport may now have a shorter validity depending on their age.