What is RPO in Passport: How to Change RPO for Your Passport?

If you've ever applied for a passport in India, you may have come across the term Regional Passport Office, or RPO. Understanding what is RPO in passport processing and how it affects your application is essential, especially if you've relocated and need to update this information. The Regional Passport Office (RPO) is a key component in passport services and plays a crucial role in issuing, renewing, and managing Indian passports.

What is RPO in Passport?

The Regional Passport Office (RPO) is an office managed by the Ministry of External Affairs in India. RPOs are responsible for processing and managing passport applications, renewals, and related services within a designated geographical region. When you submit an application for a new passport, renewal, or change in details, the RPO assigned to your region oversees the processing, verification, and issuance of your passport.

In simple terms, the RPO is the official body that handles all passport-related activities for residents within its jurisdiction. Each RPO serves a specific area, ensuring streamlined processing and managing local verification through police and administrative checks. When you apply for a passport, your application is assigned to the RPO corresponding to your place of residence, which is why updating your RPO is essential if you move to a different state or city.

Read Also: How to Apply for a Passport Online?

Reasons for Changing Your Regional Passport Office (RPO)

There are several situations where changing your Regional Passport Office might be necessary. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. If you move to a different state or a city outside your current RPO’s jurisdiction, changing your RPO ensures that future passport services are managed by the office in your new region.
2. In some cases, individuals might move to a new region after marriage, requiring an RPO update.
3. People with jobs that require frequent transfers may need to change their RPO to match their new residence.

Updating your RPO ensures that your passport-related services, such as renewals or police verification, are managed by the correct office.

How to Change the Regional Passport Office for Your Passport

Changing your Regional Passport Office may sound complicated, but the process is quite straightforward if you follow the right steps. Here’s how to make the change:
 

Step 1: Apply for a Reissue of Passport

To change your RPO, you’ll need to apply for a reissue of your passport. The reissue process includes updating your new address, which will automatically trigger a change in RPO if your new address falls under a different jurisdiction.

• Log in to the Passport Seva portal, an official platform managed by the Ministry of External Affairs.
• Select the option for reissue and specify the reason, which in this case would be a change of address or relocation.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the application form with your new address details and other necessary information. Ensure that the address provided corresponds to your new place of residence, as this will determine your new RPO.

Step 3: Upload Necessary Documents

Upload proof of your new address. Acceptable address proofs include a rent agreement, utility bill, bank statement, or Aadhaar card with your updated address. Ensure all documents are current and meet the requirements specified on the Passport Seva portal.

Read Also: Essential Documents for Passport Application in India

Step 4: Pay the Reissue Fee

A reissue application comes with a standard processing fee, which can be paid directly on the Passport Seva portal. Once payment is completed, you will receive an application reference number, which you can use to track the status of your application.

Step 5: Schedule an Appointment at the Nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

Book an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra in your new location for document verification and biometrics. During this appointment, submit all original documents for verification and ensure that your application reflects the updated address and RPO.

Step 6: Complete Police Verification

Once your application is processed, a police verification will be conducted at your new address. This verification is crucial, as it ensures that the new address is accurate and confirms your residence within the new RPO’s jurisdiction.

Step 7: Receive Your Updated Passport

Upon successful verification, you will receive your reissued passport with the updated address and RPO details. This passport will now reflect your new RPO, making any future passport services seamless within the new jurisdiction.

Conclusion

Understanding what is RPO in passport processing and how to change it is essential for anyone relocating to India. By updating your Regional Passport Office, you ensure that your passport services are handled efficiently in your new location. Whether due to a job transfer, marriage, or a move to a new city, updating your RPO keeps your travel plans on track.

Now that you are all set with your passport, one important thing you are forgetting is your travel insurance. Worry not, with our travel plans, you can relax and focus on enjoying the visit instead of stressing over the unexpected. As you plan your journey, ensure peace of mind with comprehensive travel insurance. Safe travels!