If you need information from a Goa Government department, you can file an application under the Right to Information Act, 2005. Goa offers one of the most comprehensive online RTI systems in India, allowing applicants to submit RTI applications, First Appeals and even Second Appeals through a single official portal.
The online services are available through the Goa RTI Portal. Unlike many states where appeals must be filed offline, Goa allows eligible applicants to complete almost the entire RTI process online, including payment of the prescribed fee through the integrated payment gateway.
The fee structure and filing procedure are governed by the Goa Right to Information Rules, 2012. Applicants are generally required to pay an application fee of Rs 10, while additional charges may apply for copies of records and other services as prescribed under the Rules.
Goa also has an important place in India’s transparency movement. Before the national RTI Act came into force, the state enacted the Goa Information Act, 1997, making it one of the earliest states to introduce a right-to-information law.
If you are not satisfied with the response to your RTI application, you may file a First Appeal and, where applicable, a Second Appeal through the prescribed procedure. The Goa State Information Commission (GSIC) deals with Second Appeals and complaints under the RTI Act. Before filing an appeal or complaint, check the Commission’s official website for the latest procedure and notices.
If your request relates to a Central Government ministry, department, PSU or other Central Public Authority located in Goa, use the Central RTI Online Portal instead of the State RTI system. For a complete overview of RTI procedures across India, you can also read our RTI Online India Guide.
If your objective is to get a government office to take action on a complaint rather than provide information, use the Goa Chief Minister’s Public Grievance Portal instead of the RTI process. You can learn more in our Goa CM Complaint Online guide.
Goa’s Early Right to Information Law
Before the national Right to Information Act, 2005 came into force, Goa enacted the Goa Right to Information Act, 1997, making it one of the earliest Indian states to introduce a right-to-information law. After the RTI Act, 2005 became applicable across the country, the national framework replaced the earlier state law, and the Goa Right to Information Rules, 2012 now govern the procedure, fees and related matters for State Government public authorities in Goa.
Use the Goa RTI Portal for State Government Authorities
- Revenue Department
- Goa Police
- Electricity Department
- Directorate of Panchayats
- Goa Public Service Commission (GPSC)
- Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils and Panchayats
- Town and Country Planning Department
- Health Services Department
- Directorate of Education
- Goa State Pollution Control Board
- Department of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs
- Other Goa Government departments and autonomous bodies
Use the Central RTI Online Portal for Central Public Authorities
- Income Tax Department
- Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)
- Aadhaar Card Related Queries
- Passport Office
- Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)
- National Institute of Technology (NIT) Goa
- ESIC
- Indian Navy establishments
- Railway authorities
- Other Central Government ministries, departments and public authorities
RTI Application Fee in Goa
The fee for obtaining information under the Right to Information Act, 2005 in Goa is prescribed under the Goa Right to Information Rules, 2012. Applicants are required to pay the prescribed application fee, while additional charges apply for copies of records and certain other services.
| Particular | Fee |
|---|---|
| RTI Application | Rs 10 |
| A4 / A3 Photocopies | Rs 2 per page |
| Larger Size Documents | Actual cost |
| Information on CD | Rs 50 per CD |
| Inspection of Records | Free for the first hour, then Rs 5 for every additional 15 minutes or part thereof |
| First Appeal | No fee |
| Second Appeal | No fee |
The prescribed application fee should be paid in the manner accepted by the concerned public authority or through the official Goa RTI Portal for online applications.
BPL applicants: Citizens holding a valid Below Poverty Line (BPL) certificate are exempt from paying the RTI application fee. Attach a self-attested copy of the valid BPL certificate while submitting the application.
Online Payment Options
The official Goa RTI Portal provides an integrated online payment facility. Depending on the options available on the portal, applicants can generally pay the prescribed fee using:
- Internet Banking
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- UPI
Offline Payment Modes
For offline RTI applications, the prescribed fee may generally be paid through:
- Cash against an official receipt
- Demand Draft (DD)
- Banker’s Cheque
- Indian Postal Order (IPO)
Before submitting an offline application, verify the accepted payment mode and payee details with the concerned public authority, as administrative instructions may vary.
How to File an RTI Online in Goa
Goa is one of the few states where you can file an RTI application completely online. Before you begin, make sure the information you need belongs to a Goa State Government department. If your query relates to a Central Government authority such as the Income Tax Department, EPFO or UIDAI, use the Central RTI Online Portal instead.
Step 1: Open the Goa RTI Portal
Visit rtionline.goa.gov.in. On the home page, click “Submit Request” to start a new RTI application.
Step 2: Register or Log In
If you are using the portal for the first time, create an account by entering your basic details and completing the OTP verification. Existing users can simply log in with their credentials.
Step 3: Choose the Correct Department
Select the Government department or public authority from the list. Choose the department that is most likely to have the information you are looking for. Selecting the correct department helps your application reach the right Public Information Officer more quickly.
Step 4: Write Your RTI Application
Enter your questions clearly in the application box. Ask only for information or copies of official records. If your application is too long, you can upload the complete application or supporting documents in PDF format, wherever the portal provides this option.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Most applicants need to pay an RTI application fee of Rs 10. The portal provides an online payment facility through the available payment options. If you are eligible for the BPL fee exemption, upload a copy of your valid BPL certificate instead of making the payment.
Step 6: Submit the Application
After checking all the details, submit your application. The portal will generate a Registration Number. Save this number carefully because you will need it to track your application later.
Step 7: Check Your RTI Status
Open the “Application Status” section on the Goa RTI Portal and enter your Registration Number. You can use it to check the progress of your RTI application. If the Public Information Officer asks for any additional fee for providing copies of records, you can pay it online through the portal.
How to File an RTI by Post in Goa
If you do not want to use the online RTI portal, you can also send your RTI application by post to the concerned State Public Information Officer (SPIO) of the Goa Government department holding the required information.
Step 1: Prepare Your RTI Application
Write your RTI application on plain paper. Clearly mention the information or copies of records you want to obtain. You may write the application in English, Konkani or Marathi.
Step 2: Attach the Prescribed Fee
Attach the prescribed RTI application fee of Rs 10 using any accepted payment method. If you are eligible for the BPL fee exemption, attach a self-attested copy of your valid BPL certificate instead of paying the application fee.
Step 3: Send the Application
Address the application to the State Public Information Officer (SPIO) of the concerned public authority and send it by Speed Post or another reliable postal service that provides delivery tracking.
Step 4: Keep the Postal Receipt Safe
Keep a copy of your RTI application, the fee payment proof and the postal receipt. These documents may be required later if you need to file a First Appeal or a Second Appeal.
How to File a First Appeal Online in Goa
If you do not receive a reply to your RTI application within the prescribed time, or you are not satisfied with the information provided, you can file a First Appeal through the official Goa RTI Portal.
Step 1: Open the Goa RTI Portal
Visit rtionline.goa.gov.in and click “Submit First Appeal”.
Step 2: Enter Your RTI Details
Provide the Registration Number of your original RTI application along with the email ID used while filing it. The portal will retrieve your application details.
Step 3: Explain Why You Are Filing the Appeal
Clearly mention the reason for filing the First Appeal, such as not receiving a reply within the prescribed time or receiving an incomplete or unsatisfactory response. No fee is payable for filing a First Appeal.
Step 4: Submit and Track the Appeal
Review the information and submit the appeal. You can later check its progress through the “Application Status” section on rtionline.goa.gov.in.
Can You File an RTI in Konkani, Marathi or English?
Yes. Under Section 6(1) of the Right to Information Act, 2005, an RTI application may be submitted in English, Konkani or Marathi. Applicants can choose the language they are most comfortable using.
The official Goa RTI Portal also provides support for filing RTI applications online. Regardless of the language used, keep your application clear, specific and limited to seeking information or copies of official records.
If you are submitting an RTI application by post, write neatly and mention the required information in simple language so that the concerned Public Information Officer can process your request without difficulty.
How to File a Second Appeal Online in Goa
If you are not satisfied with the decision on your First Appeal, or the First Appellate Authority does not pass an order within the prescribed time, you can file a Second Appeal before the Goa State Information Commission (GSIC). Goa is one of the few states where this process can also be completed online through the official RTI Portal.
Step 1: Open the Goa RTI Portal
Visit rtionline.goa.gov.in and click “Submit Second Appeal”.
Step 2: Enter Your RTI Details
Provide the Registration Number of your original RTI application along with the email ID used while filing it. The portal will retrieve the details of your RTI application and First Appeal.
Step 3: Explain the Reason for the Second Appeal
Clearly mention why you are filing the Second Appeal, such as non-receipt of information, an unsatisfactory decision on the First Appeal, or any other grievance relating to your RTI request. There is no fee for filing a Second Appeal.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload copies of the relevant documents, wherever required, such as the RTI application, reply received, First Appeal and First Appellate Authority’s order.
Step 5: Submit and Track the Appeal
Review all the details and submit your Second Appeal. You can track its progress through the “Application Status” section on rtionline.goa.gov.in.
How to File an RTI Complaint in Goa
If your RTI application is not accepted, no Public Information Officer has been appointed, an unreasonable fee is demanded, or you face any other difficulty in exercising your rights under the RTI Act, you may file a Complaint before the Goa State Information Commission (GSIC).
Before submitting a complaint, visit the official Goa State Information Commission website to check the latest procedure, required documents and instructions. A complaint under Section 18 of the RTI Act is different from a Second Appeal and should be used only in situations where filing a complaint is legally appropriate.
RTI Response Time in Goa
After receiving your RTI application, the Public Information Officer (PIO) must respond within the time limits prescribed under the Right to Information Act, 2005.
| Situation | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Normal RTI application | 30 days |
| Information concerning the life or liberty of a person | 48 hours |
| Transfer of application under Section 6(3) | Within 5 days, if another public authority holds the information |
If you do not receive a reply within the applicable time limit, or you are dissatisfied with the response, you may file a First Appeal under Section 19(1) of the RTI Act.
RTI Appeal Time Limits in Goa
| Appeal | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| First Appeal | Within 30 days from the PIO’s decision or the expiry of the response period |
| Decision on First Appeal | Normally within 30 days, extendable up to 45 days with recorded reasons |
| Second Appeal | Within 90 days from the First Appellate Authority’s decision or the expiry of the prescribed period |
Helpful Tips Before Filing an RTI in Goa
- Choose the correct RTI portal: Use the Goa RTI Portal for Goa State Government departments. For Central Government ministries, departments and public authorities, use the Central RTI Online Portal.
- Ask for existing records only: Request copies of documents, orders, reports or other official records. Avoid asking questions that require opinions, explanations or interpretations.
- Keep your request specific: Clearly mention the subject, time period and information required. Short and specific RTI applications are usually processed more efficiently.
- Keep all documents safely: Save your Registration Number, payment receipt, postal receipt (if applicable) and copies of your RTI application. These may be required while filing an appeal.
- Check information already available online: Before filing an RTI, verify whether the required information has already been published on the official Goa Government Portal or the concerned department’s website.
- Use RTI only for seeking information: If you want a complaint resolved or action to be taken, use the appropriate grievance redressal mechanism instead of the RTI process.
Quick Reference
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Goa RTI Portal | rtionline.goa.gov.in |
| Goa State Information Commission | gsic.goa.gov.in |
| Goa Government Portal | goa.gov.in |
| Central RTI Online Portal | rtionline.gov.in |
| RTI Application Fee | Rs 10 |
| Photocopy Charges | Rs 2 per page (A4/A3) |
| First Appeal Fee | No fee |
| Second Appeal Fee | No fee |
| Response Time | Normally 30 days |
| Online Payment | Internet Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card and UPI |
| Offline Payment | Cash (where accepted), Demand Draft, Banker’s Cheque and Indian Postal Order |
| Languages | English, Konkani and Marathi |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I file an RTI application online in Goa?
Ans. Yes. You can file an RTI application through the official Goa RTI Portal. The portal also allows eligible applicants to file First Appeals and Second Appeals online.
Q. What is the RTI application fee in Goa?
Ans. The prescribed RTI application fee is Rs 10. Additional charges may apply for copies of records as specified under the Goa Right to Information Rules, 2012. Applicants holding a valid BPL certificate are exempt from paying the application fee.
Q. Can I file an RTI application in English, Konkani or Marathi?
Ans. Yes. RTI applications may be submitted in English, Konkani or Marathi. Choose the language in which you can clearly describe the information you want to obtain.
Q. How can I file a First Appeal in Goa?
Ans. If you do not receive a reply within the prescribed time or you are not satisfied with the response, you may file a First Appeal before the First Appellate Authority. Goa also provides an online facility for filing First Appeals through the Goa RTI Portal.
Q. How can I file a Second Appeal in Goa?
Ans. If you are not satisfied with the decision on your First Appeal, you may file a Second Appeal before the Goa State Information Commission (GSIC). Goa is one of the few states where Second Appeals can also be submitted online through the official Goa RTI Portal.
Q. Can I use the Goa RTI Portal for Central Government departments?
Ans. No. The Goa RTI Portal is meant for Goa State Government public authorities. For Central Government ministries, departments and other Central Public Authorities, use the Central RTI Online Portal.
Q. What should I do if my RTI application is not accepted?
Ans. If your RTI application is refused, no Public Information Officer has been appointed, an unreasonable fee is demanded, or you face any other issue covered under Section 18 of the RTI Act, you may file a complaint before the Goa State Information Commission (GSIC).
Q. Can I inspect government records under the RTI Act?
Ans. Yes. The RTI Act allows applicants to inspect government records. Under the Goa Right to Information Rules, 2012, inspection is free for the first hour, after which the prescribed inspection fee is payable.
Q. Can I use RTI to lodge a complaint?
Ans. No. The RTI Act is meant to obtain information from public authorities. If you want to report a public grievance or request action from the Government of Goa, you should use the appropriate grievance redressal mechanism. You can also read our guide on filing a Goa CM Complaint online.
Tabassum is a government document researcher and writer with over 5 years of experience exclusively dedicated to tracking and simplifying Central and State Government document processes across India. She has researched and published detailed guides on 100+ government documents and certificates – including Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Ration Card, Domicile Certificate, and Birth Certificate – covering all states and the Central Government, helping lakhs of Indian citizens successfully complete their paperwork in simple, easy-to-understand language.