Vizag RPO Becomes Key Passport Hub
The Regional Passport Office (RPO) here is witnessing a steady increase in applications as more students and professionals from north coastal Andhra plan overseas travel for education and employment. The rise is evident across all 12 districts under the RPO’s jurisdiction.
Officials report sustained footfall from the erstwhile Godavari, Srikakulam and Vizianagaram regions. “Young applicants account for a significant share of new requests,” an RPO official said. The office operates two Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and seven Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs), enabling residents to complete the process within their districts.
A passport remains essential for foreign travel. Many applicants still depend on agents despite a simplified online system. “Most users can handle the process independently,” the official added.
Applicants must begin the procedure on passportindia.gov.in, register with basic details and submit the online form. The system generates an Application Reference Number, after which applicants pay the fee and select an appointment.
At the Passport Seva Kendra, applicants present the receipt, address proof and date of birth certificate. Staff verify the documents and forward the file for police checks. Police personnel conduct residence verification before the RPO dispatches the chip-embedded passport.
Normal applications take 30 to 45 days to process. The Tatkal category offers issuance in one to three working days with additional documents and a higher fee. Applicants may reschedule appointments three times under the normal system, while Tatkal permits only one rescheduling. Fees range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,500 depending on age and category.
Officials expect the upward trend to continue as more residents pursue opportunities abroad.