Online Passport Registration
ऑनलाइन पंजीकरण
(Private Consultancy Service Provider)
When applying for a passport in India, applicants often come across terms like PSK (Passport Seva Kendra), RPO (Regional Passport Office), and POPSK (Post Office Passport Seva Kendra). These terms can be confusing for first-time applicants, but each has a distinct role in the passport issuance process. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right place to apply, schedule your appointment, and understand where your passport application will be processed.
In this detailed guide, we explain the differences between PSK, RPO, and POPSK, their functions, and which one you should visit for your passport needs.
A Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is an official service center established under the Passport Seva Project by the Government of India in collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
Primary location for submitting passport applications.
Handles biometric data collection (fingerprints and photograph).
Accepts and verifies supporting documents.
Provides applicants with acknowledgment slips and file numbers.
Forwards applications to the concerned Regional Passport Office (RPO) for final approval.
First-time applicants for a new passport.
Those applying for passport renewal, re-issue, or Tatkal passport.
Individuals updating details such as name, address, or marital status.
A Regional Passport Office (RPO) is the central administrative authority in a region, controlled by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Each RPO supervises several PSKs and POPSKs in its jurisdiction.
Final authority to approve or reject passport applications.
Issues official clearance after police verification.
Handles complex cases such as disputed documents, legal name changes, or adverse police reports.
Manages grievances, appeals, and escalations related to passports.
Issues diplomatic and official passports in special cases.
Applicants whose cases need higher-level scrutiny.
People facing passport delays due to adverse verification or special requirements.
Those appealing against rejections or requiring grievance redressal.
The Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) is a newer initiative by the Government of India to make passport services accessible in smaller towns and rural areas. These centers operate within India Post offices, under the supervision of nearby RPOs.
Accept passport applications in towns/districts without a PSK.
Collect biometrics, photographs, and documents.
Provide convenience for applicants in remote areas.
Forward applications to the nearest RPO for final processing.
Applicants from smaller towns without direct access to PSKs.
Those seeking convenience closer to home rather than traveling to major cities.
| Feature | PSK (Passport Seva Kendra) | RPO (Regional Passport Office) | POPSK (Post Office Passport Seva Kendra) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Role | Front-end service center | Administrative & approval authority | Mini service center within post offices |
| Main Function | Collects biometrics, documents, and applications | Approves/rejects, resolves complex cases, supervises PSKs/POPSKs | Provides passport services in smaller towns |
| Who Visits | Applicants for new/renewal passports | Applicants with disputes, escalations, or special cases | Applicants in rural or semi-urban areas |
| Convenience | Located in major cities and towns | Regional-level authority offices | Located in district-level post offices |
PSK: If you live in or near a city, book an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra for faster processing.
POPSK: If you are in a smaller town or rural area, choose a Post Office Passport Seva Kendra for convenience.
RPO: Visit or contact the Regional Passport Office only if your case is complex, delayed, or requires escalation.
While all three—PSK, RPO, and POPSK—play crucial roles in the passport issuance system, their responsibilities differ. PSKs and POPSKs act as the front-end centers where applications are submitted, while the RPO functions as the final approving authority. By understanding the distinction, applicants can save time, prepare the right documents, and know exactly where to go for their passport services.
At smotpro.in, Delhi, we have professional agents, dedicated staff, and fast services to guide you through the passport application process smoothly — from start to finish.
Our Passport offices : Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bangalore, Vizag, and Hyderabad
