RPO vs PSK: Difference Explained

A Passport Seva Kendra accepts passport applications, gathers biometric data, verifies documents, and forwards the passport applications to their respective Regional Passport Offices. Passport Seva Kendras can be found in major Indian cities as well as in small towns. 

Types of Passport Seva Kendras

Apart from Passport Seva Kendras, there are two other types of centres that offer passport services. They are as follows: 

• Post Office Passport Seva Kendra: POPSKs are passport centres that operate in post offices. They are established in semi-urban and rural areas to make passport services accessible for all. 

• Mini-PSKs: These are centres operating under a Regional Passport Office, established in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to provide passport services. They process a lower volume of passport applications compared to a regular Passport Seva Kendra. 

Key Differences of RPO and PSK

The major differences in the functions of a Regional Passport Office and a Passport Seva Kendra are as follows:  

Which is Better: RPO or PSK?

Both the Regional Passport Office and Passport Seva Kendras are set up by the Government of India in order to make passport services easily accessible to people. Depending on your need, you can visit either of these establishments. To apply for a passport, you can visit a Passport Seva Kendra, as a PSK is responsible for processing passport applications, collecting biometrics, reissuance and renewal, making updates, etc.  

A visit to the Regional Passport Office is required when you have special cases including emergency passport services, concerns regarding police reports, document verification, or clarification, etc. An appointment is always required if you wish to visit a Regional Passport Office.