The Indian Passport is the Second Cheapest in the World

The Indian passport has been ranked as the second cheapest to obtain passport in the world. The cheapest pasport is the one issued in the UAE. The India Passport is also the cheapest in terms of cost per year of validity. An Indian passport allows people to travel to 62 nations visa-free. The number one spot has been taken by the UAE, whose passport is cheapest in cost of acquisition and the number of countries for visa-free travel.

The study on passports of the world was done by Compare the Market AU. The Australian company studied

1. The cost of acquisition of passports
2. The cost per year of validity and,
3. The number of nations allowed visa free travel

A press statement by the firm said that India had the second cheapest passport on the list, costing $18.07 for a validity of 10 years while the UAE has $17.70 for a 5-year passport. 

In terms of cost per year of validity, India had the cheapest passport with a cost of $1.81 per year. South Africa and Kenya were in second and third place, at about $3.05 and $3.09 respectively.

The study found Mexico the most expensive passport, costing USD 231.05 for 10 years. Australia was a little cheaper at USD 225.78 for a 10-year passport.

Compare the Marlet AU said that the travel insurance comparison experts compiled a list of passport fees around the world and compared them based on price, years validity and power, finding some nations’ passport power can come with a high price tag.

While Indian passports offer economic advantages, their visa-free access is limited, contrasting with countries like Australia, the USA, and Canada, which, despite their passport power, incur relatively higher fees.

Given the importance of a passport, many travellers choose travel insurance to mitigate expenses incurred from loss, theft, or damage while on travel. According to Adrian Taylor, Executive General Manager of General Insurance at Compare the Market,“Nobody wants to be stressed out on their holidays. Damage, loss or theft of your important documents is an unfortunate risk many people face while overseas. Depending on your policy, travel insurance may be able to help cover the cost of a replacement if you need to apply for one.’’