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?

What are the Types of Passport Offices in India?

India has a well-structured passport issuance system, comprising different types of passport offices that cater to applicants based on their location and requirements. The main types of passport offices in India include:

1. Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) – These are the primary passport-issuing authorities in various regions. They oversee the entire passport application process, including issuance, reissue, and grievance redressal. RPOs also handle complex cases, such as legal matters or diplomatic passports.
2. Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) – These centres function as service delivery points where applicants submit documents, provide biometrics, and complete verification. While PSKs process applications, the final decision is taken by the respective RPO.
3. Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) – To extend passport services to semi-urban and rural areas, the Ministry of External Affairs has partnered with India Post to set up POPSKs. These centres operate within post offices and provide passport application services similar to PSKs.
4. Passport Application Collection Centres – Some embassies, consulates, or third-party agencies are authorised to collect applications and forward them to the appropriate passport office for processing.

Each type of passport office plays a distinct role in making the passport issuance process accessible and efficient for citizens across India.

How is the Regional Passport Office Different from Passport Seva Kendra?

While both the Regional Passport Office (RPO) and Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) play crucial roles in the passport issuance process, they serve different functions:

In summary, while PSKs facilitate the initial application process, the RPO has the final authority in issuing passports.

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 Choose a Regional Passport Office?

Choosing the correct Regional Passport Office (RPO) is essential to ensure smooth processing of your passport application. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Residential Jurisdiction – Every RPO is assigned specific geographical areas. You must apply at the RPO corresponding to your permanent or current residential address.
2. Application Type – If you are applying for a fresh passport, reissue, or a Tatkal passport, ensure that the RPO handles the specific service you require. Some complex cases (such as legal name changes or lost passports) may require direct interaction with the RPO.
3. Processing Efficiency – While processing times are generally standardised, some RPOs may have shorter queues or faster resolution times. Checking online reviews and timelines can help determine which office is more efficient.
4. Accessibility – Choose an RPO that is easily accessible, as you may need to visit for urgent matters or escalations. Most RPOs are located in major cities, but their jurisdiction may cover surrounding areas.
5. Escalation and Grievance Redressal – If you anticipate any complications with your application (such as prior police verification issues or incorrect documentation), selecting an RPO with a strong grievance redressal system can be beneficial.

Your RPO will play a critical role in the passport issuance process, so selecting the right one based on your residence and application requirements is essential.

List of Regional Passport Offices in India

India has multiple Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) to cater to applicants across the country. Below is a list of major RPOs:

1. Northern India

• Delhi
• Chandigarh
• Lucknow
• Jaipur
• Dehradun

2. Western India

• Mumbai
• Pune
• Ahmedabad
• Bhopal
• Panaji

3. Southern India

• Chennai
• Bengaluru
• Hyderabad
• Cochin
• Thiruvananthapuram

4. Eastern and North-Eastern India

• Kolkata
• Bhubaneswar
• Guwahati
• Ranchi
• Patna

5. Central India

• Raipur
• Nagpur
• Indore

Each RPO oversees multiple states and cities within its jurisdiction. Applicants must visit the RPO corresponding to their residential address for passport-related queries and escalations.

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.

FAQs

1. Can I collect my passport directly from the RPO instead of having it delivered?

No, passports are generally dispatched through Speed Post to the applicant's registered address. However, in exceptional cases, such as urgent travel or lost passports, collection from the RPO may be allowed with prior approval.

2. Is it possible to apply online for the reissue of my passport?

Yes, you can apply for a passport reissue online through the Passport Seva website. However, you will still need to visit a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) for biometric verification and document submission.

3. Can I visit the Regional Passport Office (RPO) without an appointment?

If you are confused about how to change registered RPO in passport seva? It is advisable to have an appointment before visiting the RPO, especially for general enquiries. However, in emergency cases, such as lost passports or urgent travel requirements, walk-in visits may be considered.

4. How can I check the status of my application at the RPO?

You can check the status of your passport application online via the Passport Seva website by entering your application reference number. Alternatively, you can contact the RPO through their helpline or visit the office in case of urgent concerns.

5. Can I escalate my passport application issue at the RPO?

Yes, if you face delays or complications with your application, you can escalate the issue at your respective RPO. It is recommended to carry all relevant documents and proof of application status when visiting the RPO for resolution.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Regional Passport Offices in India. If you have any further queries, you can visit the official Passport Seva website or contact your nearest RPO.

6. How to change RPO in passport?

People often get confused when talking about how to change RPO in passport seva? To change the Regional Passport Office (RPO) for your passport, you need to update your application details. Click passport nic in Login on the Passport Seva website, select ‘Re-issue of Passport’, and update your new address. The system will automatically assign the corresponding RPO based on your address. Submit the application, pay the fee, and schedule an appointment at the designated Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).

7. How many days will I get my passport?

The time taken to receive a passport depends on the type of application:

• Normal Passport: Usually issued within 30–45 days after police verification.
• Tatkal Passport: Typically issued within 1–3 days after verification.
  Processing time may vary depending on police verification and document verification status.

8. How can I track my passport delivery?

You can track your passport delivery status through the Passport Seva website. Log in, enter your file number, and check the status under ‘Track Application Status’. Alternatively, if dispatched, you will receive an SMS with the tracking details, and you can track it on the India Post website using the provided consignment number.

9. How can I check my passport details online in India?

To check your passport details online, visit the Passport Seva website and log in with your registered credentials. Go to the ‘View Saved/Submitted Applications’ section to access your application details. If you need to verify passport details, you can also use the mPassport Seva app.

10. Can I choose any RPO for my passport?

No, you cannot choose any RPO at your discretion. The RPO is assigned based on the residential address mentioned in your passport application. If you move to a different city, you must update your address, and the system will automatically assign the corresponding RPO.

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!