Latest Update: Rule 38 Transfers Go 100% Online
As of 2025, the Department of Posts has completely moved all Rule 38 mutual transfer applications to a centralized online portal. Offline applications are no longer accepted, streamlining the process but introducing mandatory compliance steps for all employees.
What is a Rule 38 Mutual Transfer?
Rule 38 of the Postal Manual Volume IV allows two postal employees to mutually exchange their posts voluntarily. This helps staff relocate closer to their hometowns or desired locations without disrupting operations.
✅ Core Requirements
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Same Cadre & Category | Both employees must be from the same cadre (e.g., PA to PA), and same category (UR/SC/OBC/ST). |
| Service Duration | Minimum 1 year of service required. (PwBD & compassionate cases are exempt) |
| Transfer Limits | Max 2 Inter-Circle + 2 Intra-Circle transfers in a career, with a 3-year gap rule. |
How to Apply: New Online Transfer System (2025)
Mutual transfers are now processed only through the official Rule 38 Transfer Portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Employee A Initiates the Request
- Log in to the Rule 38 portal.
- Choose “Mutual” as the transfer reason.
- Enter the Employee ID of the desired counterpart.
- Submit and generate the application number.
2. Employee B Confirms the Request
- Logs in and sees: “You have a mutual transfer request from [Employee A]”.
- Click Accept or Reject.
- Accept: Application proceeds.
- Reject: Application is voided
Inter-Circle Transfers
- The system automatically blocks requests if:
- Recruitment mode (DR vs. Promotee) mismatches.
- Community/reservation category mismatches (e.g., UR ≠ SC/OBC).
Officer Verification
- No batch processing now. Real-time verification by the controlling officer.
- Requests must be submitted by:
- Feb 28, May 31, Aug 31, Nov 30
- Officer must verify by:
- March 5, June 5, Sept 5, Dec 5
Impact on Seniority & Promotions
- After transfer, both employees are placed at the lower seniority of the two.
- If you clear a departmental exam before transfer, promotion happens in the old unit.
- Rejoining your original unit won’t restore your seniority.
Transfer Limits & Restrictions
- Post-Transfer Lock: After a Rule 37 transfer, Rule 38 is locked for 3 years.
- Withdrawals: Requests can be withdrawn anytime before final approval.
- Post-Approval Window: You have 72 hours to cancel after allotment. Beyond that, it’s considered a used chance.
- Re-transfers are treated as fresh transfers and subject to all conditions.
Special Cases & Relaxations
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| PwBD (Benchmark Disabilities) | One additional transfer opportunity beyond the 2+2 rule. |
| Female (Post-Divorce) | Eligible for special relocation near parental home with proof of divorce. |
| Compassionate Appointees | Exempted from the 1-year service rule. |
Transfer Calendar: Quarterly Processing
| Cycle | Application Deadline | Verification Deadline | Final Orders Issued In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 (Jan–Mar) | Feb 28 | March 5 | March |
| Q2 (Apr–Jun) | May 31 | June 5 | June |
| Q3 (Jul–Sep) | Aug 31 | Sept 5 | September |
| Q4 (Oct–Dec) | Nov 30 | Dec 5 | December |
Priority Order:
PwBD > Compassionate > Terminal Illness > Spouse Grounds > General
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Category Confusion: Double-check the “Selected Against Community” field (e.g., SC appointed under UR = UR).
- Unconfirmed Requests: Never initiate without your counterpart’s prior consent.
- Documentation Delay: Upload required proofs early (divorce certificate, disability certificate, etc.).
Pro Tips to Maximize Success
- Keep screenshots of each submission step.
- Frequently check the Rule 38 Portal for updates.
- Contact your SPN-II Nodal Officer for stuck applications.
- Join MutualTransferHub.in to find your ideal partner quickly!
