How Much Extra Does Tatkal Cost?

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 Navigating the world of passport applications can be overwhelming, especially when urgency strikes. For Indian citizens needing to fast-track their passport application, the Tatkal Passport Scheme offers a quick and efficient solution. However, with speed comes an additional cost. In this comprehensive guide, we detail how much extra the Tatkal service costs, the structure of fees, processing time, and how you can seamlessly apply.

What is the Tatkal Passport Scheme?

The Tatkal Passport Scheme is a special fast-track service offered by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, for applicants who need their passport urgently. This scheme is available for fresh passport issuance and passport reissue/renewal under specific conditions.

Under Tatkal, your passport can be processed and dispatched within 1-3 working days, provided documentation is complete and police verification is either not required or done on a post-passport issuance basis.

Tatkal Passport Fee Structure – What’s the Extra Cost?

The Tatkal scheme incurs an additional fee over the regular passport application. Here's a detailed breakdown:

For Fresh Passport (36 Pages Booklet – Adults – 10-Year Validity)

  • Normal Fee: ₹1,500

  • Tatkal Fee: ₹2,000 (additional)

  • Total Fee for Tatkal: ₹3,500

For Fresh Passport (60 Pages Booklet – Adults – 10-Year Validity)

  • Normal Fee: ₹2,000

  • Tatkal Fee: ₹2,000 (additional)

  • Total Fee for Tatkal: ₹4,000

For Minors (Below 15 Years)

  • Normal Fee: ₹1,000

  • Tatkal Fee: ₹2,000 (additional)

  • Total Fee for Tatkal: ₹3,000

Note: Tatkal services are not always available for minors below 15. Approval is case-dependent.

For Reissue or Renewal under Tatkal

The fee structure remains the same as above depending on the page count and applicant’s age. Tatkal is applicable for lost/damaged passports, expired passports, or changes in personal particulars.

Where Does the Extra Fee Go?

The ₹2,000 Tatkal surcharge is levied for expedited processing. This cost helps cover the following:

  • Priority slot allocation at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

  • Expedited background verification procedures

  • Express dispatch and printing processes

  • Special handling by officials and police departments

Processing Time – Is It Really Faster?

Yes. Under the Tatkal scheme:

  • Passport is issued within 1-3 working days

  • Police verification is either done post-issuance or not needed based on applicant category

  • Applicants enjoy priority appointment booking

Compared to normal processing, which may take 7 to 21 days or more, Tatkal is remarkably faster.

Eligibility Criteria for Tatkal Passport

To be eligible for the Tatkal passport, applicants must:

  • Be Indian citizens

  • Not fall under categories flagged for pre-verification

  • Possess required documents as per Tatkal checklist

Documents Required for Tatkal Passport

To ensure smooth processing under Tatkal, ensure the following documents are ready:

  • Proof of current address (Aadhaar, Utility Bill, etc.)

  • Date of birth proof (Birth certificate, PAN, etc.)

  • Annexure ‘E’ (Self-declaration in prescribed format)

  • Standard affidavit (Annexure 'I')

  • Verification Certificate (Annexure 'F') – sometimes waived based on applicant profile

  • Existing passport (in case of reissue)

Additional documents may be required based on the applicant's case. The document checklist must strictly adhere to MEA’s requirements.

Tatkal Passport: Police Verification Rules

Tatkal applicants usually fall under post-police verification, unless there's a red flag. This means:

  • Passport is dispatched first

  • Police verification is done later

  • If verification fails, the passport may be revoked

Some applicants may be required to undergo pre-police verification based on past history or document inconsistencies.

Advantages of Applying Under Tatkal Scheme

  • Quick turnaround time (1–3 working days)

  • Reduced chances of appointment delays

  • Emergency travel-friendly

  • High success rate when documents are valid

How to Apply for Tatkal Passport

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Register on the Passport Seva Portal
    Visit https://portal2.passportindia.gov.in and create your login.

  2. Fill the Tatkal application form online

  3. Pay the total fee (normal + Tatkal charges)

  4. Book a Tatkal appointment at the nearest PSK

  5. Carry original documents and attend the biometric and document verification

  6. Track your passport status online

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Tatkal Application

  • Incomplete documentation

  • Incorrect affidavit format

  • Booking non-Tatkal slot by mistake

  • Providing invalid proof of urgency

Always double-check the document list and consult a professional agent if unsure.

Tatkal Passport Fee – Refund Policy

The Tatkal fee is non-refundable. If your application is converted to normal mode due to ineligibility, the Tatkal surcharge is not refunded. Always verify eligibility before making payment.

Why Smotpro.in is the Smartest Way to Apply Tatkal

At Smotpro.in, we provide complete end-to-end assistance for:

  • Tatkal Passport Services

  • Document verification and affidavit preparation

  • Faster appointment scheduling

  • 24×7 expert support across India

Whether it’s a lost passport, urgent renewal, or fresh application, we ensure you never miss your document when you need it most.

Our offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bangalore, Vizag, and Hyderabad are ready to serve you round-the-clock.

Avoid queues, documentation errors, and appointment delays — trust the professionals at Smotpro.in to handle your passport and visa needs efficiently.

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