When applying for an Indian passport, applicants are often given two options: the Normal scheme and the Tatkal scheme. While the Normal passport application follows standard processing timelines, the Tatkal passport service is designed for urgent or time-sensitive travel needs.
However, many first-time applicants or travelers ask:
"Why is the Tatkal passport fee so high?"
Let’s explore the reasons behind the higher Tatkal fee, what it covers, and whether it’s truly worth paying the extra charge.
Understanding the Tatkal Passport Scheme
The Tatkal scheme was introduced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, to provide expedited passport issuance for applicants with genuine and urgent travel needs.
Unlike normal applications that take 7–30 days, Tatkal applications are usually processed within 1–3 working days, subject to successful verification and eligibility.
Tatkal Passport Fee Structure (as of 2024)
Here’s how the fees compare between the two schemes:
| Passport Type | Normal Fee | Tatkal Fee (includes Tatkal charges) |
|---|---|---|
| 36 pages (valid for 10 years) | ₹1,500 | ₹3,500 |
| 60 pages (valid for 10 years) | ₹2,000 | ₹4,000 |
| Minor (5 years validity) | ₹1,000 | ₹3,000 |
So, in most cases, the Tatkal scheme costs ₹2,000 extra compared to the standard fee. But what exactly justifies this additional charge?
Why Is the Tatkal Fee So High?
1. Fast-Track Processing Priority
The primary reason behind the higher fee is the expedited processing service. Under Tatkal:
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Your application gets top priority at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
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Police verification (if required) is done on a post-issuance basis
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Passport printing and dispatch are completed within 1–3 working days
This level of speed requires dedicated resources, extra manpower, and internal prioritization—leading to additional administrative costs.
2. Reserved Slots at PSK/RPO
Tatkal applicants are given access to dedicated slots that are limited and often released during off-peak hours. These slots are highly sought-after and reserved only for those who genuinely need urgent service.
Why this matters:
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Prevents overloading of the normal processing system
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Ensures faster document scanning, biometric capture, and passport approval
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Requires efficient coordination between regional passport offices and verification authorities
The high fee helps maintain this exclusive and efficient service level.
3. Resource-Intensive Backend Workflow
Tatkal applications involve additional background checks in a shorter timeline. This means:
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Fast and verified access to police databases
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Priority routing of files internally
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Real-time validation and flagging of discrepancies
All of this requires more personnel, upgraded IT systems, and secure communication channels—all of which increase operational cost.
4. Fraud Prevention Measures
Because Tatkal passports are issued quickly, the system must be more vigilant to prevent misuse. The MEA has built multiple layers of verification and fraud detection, including:
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Manual scrutiny by senior officers
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Restrictions on who can apply under Tatkal
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Requirement of additional documents (Annexure F or 3 ID proofs)
These checks make the process more secure but also more expensive to administer.
5. Discouraging Non-Genuine Usage
The higher fee is also intended to discourage misuse of the Tatkal scheme by applicants who are not truly in need of urgent service.
If Tatkal were priced the same as Normal service, the system would become overloaded and its core purpose would be defeated.
Thus, the high fee ensures:
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Only genuine urgent travelers opt for it
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The Normal application route remains decongested
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Passport offices can maintain balanced workflow efficiency
6. Government Revenue for Premium Services
Part of the extra Tatkal fee also contributes to:
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Upgrading infrastructure at PSKs and RPOs
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Training staff to handle urgent cases
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Implementing digital tools for faster verification
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Funding customer care and grievance redressal for Tatkal applicants
This aligns with the idea that premium services require premium pricing.
Is Tatkal Worth the Higher Fee?
Absolutely—if you need your passport urgently, the Tatkal service is 100% worth the extra cost.
Scenarios where Tatkal is ideal:
✅ Last-minute international business trip
✅ Emergency medical travel
✅ Sudden scholarship or job opportunity abroad
✅ Lost or damaged passport right before travel
✅ Visa appointment with tight deadlines
The peace of mind that comes with guaranteed quick delivery, dedicated appointment slots, and fewer delays makes the additional fee justifiable.
We Make Tatkal Faster & Easier – SmotPro India Pvt Ltd
At Smotpro.in we help you get your Tatkal passport processed quickly, correctly, and stress-free. From documentation to appointments, we provide complete assistance for new and re-issue Tatkal applications.
Why choose us for Tatkal Passport?
✅ Verified documentation (Annexure F, I & ID proofs)
✅ Fast slot booking with appointment monitoring
✅ 24×7 customer support
✅ PAN India coverage: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Visakhapatnam and more
✅ Expert help with police verification and FAQs
Contact us today to make your urgent passport needs simple, smooth, and successful.
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