Passport Offices in Karnataka

How passport offices work in Karnataka

Passport services in Karnataka are delivered through three types of offices. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right one:

• Regional Passport Office (RPO): The main authority for Karnataka. It checks applications, approves and prints passports, and handles police verification follow-ups, complex cases and grievances. Visit only if your application is put on hold or you are asked to come in.
• Passport Seva Kendra (PSK): The front office where you go for your appointment. Staff check your documents, take your photo and fingerprints, and accept your application. PSKs are usually in larger cities.
• Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK): A passport counter inside a head post office. It offers the same appointment services as a PSK, often with shorter travel time for people outside the big cities.

You can book an appointment at any PSK or POPSK. Your application is then processed by the RPO that covers your current address.

How to apply for a passport in Karnataka

1. Register on the official Passport Seva portal (passportindia.gov.in) or the mPassport Seva app.
2. Fill in the application for a fresh passport, renewal or re-issue. Choose Normal orTatkal.
3. Pay the fee online and book an appointment at a PSK or POPSK in Karnataka that is convenient for you.
4. Visit the centre on your appointment date with your original documents and self-attested photocopies.
5. Complete police verification when the local police contact you, if your application needs it.
6. Track your application online with your file number. The passport is delivered to your address by Speed Post.

Documents to carry

• Appointment receipt or Application Reference Number (ARN)
• Proof of address, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, utility bill, bank passbook or rent agreement
• Proof of date of birth, such as a birth certificate, school leaving certificate, PAN card or Aadhaar card
• Your old passport, for renewal or re-issue
• For minors: the parents' passports or ID proof, plus Annexure forms where needed

Carry originals and one set of self-attested photocopies.

Check the document advisor on the Passport Seva portal for the exact list for your case.

Tips for your appointment day

• Reach the centre about 15 minutes before your slot. You are usually let in only near your appointment time.
• Check the address and landmark of your PSK or POPSK in the list above before you leave.
• Do not bring large bags or laptops. Many centres have limited or no storage.
• Make sure your name, date of birth and address match across all your documents. Mismatches are the most common reason for delays.
• Use the ATM availability shown for each centre if you need cash for photocopies or travel.

Normal vs Tatkal passport

Normal is the standard option at the regular fee. Tatkal costs an extra fee and is processed faster, which helps if you have urgent travel plans. Both are booked the same way, at any PSK or POPSK in Karnataka. Check the current fees with the fee calculator on the Passport Seva portal before you apply.

Stay safe from fake websites and agents

Apply only through the official Passport Seva portal or the mPassport Seva app. Many look-alike websites charge extra fees for the same service. You do not need an agent to get a passport in Karnataka. For any problem, contact the RPO using the phone number or email listed above.