How to change your name in the passport?

A passport serves as proof of identity while travelling abroad. Hence, the accuracy of the passport’s details becomes extremely important. For instance, one of the crucial details mentioned in a passport is the holder’s name; if you decide to change your name, your passport must be updated accordingly. This is why we have prepared a guide that will help you if you want to apply for a change of name in your passport.

Procedure to change name in Indian passport

To change the name on a passport, you can choose to submit your application via the official portal or do so by visiting the local Passport Seva Kendra. 

The following sections explain the online and offline procedure to change name in passport. 

1. Online application to change name in passport

Here are the steps you need to follow for the online application to change name on your passport.

Step 1: Visit the official Passport Seva portal online.

Step 2: You can register and then log in by using your credentials.

Step 3: From the given list of options, you need to select “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport”.

Step 4: Choose alternative 1 for the online application.

Step 5: Pick the option “re-issue of the passport” and select the details you wish to change in your passport.

Step 6: Fill in the details related to changing the name in your passport.

Step 7: Select “Yes” in agreement with the terms and conditions and “Save” your provided details before clicking “Next”.

Step 8: Select the documents you want to submit as proof of address and birth.

Step 9: Print the application form, make the payment and take a printout of the receipt.

Step 10: Book an appointment slot as per availability.

Step 11: Upload the scanned copies of the documents and download the final receipt.

Now, you need to visit the passport office on the date of your appointment and carry the application receipt and other relevant documents. The authorities will verify everything and send the updated passport to your home address via mail.

2. Offline application to change name in passport

Here are the steps you need to follow to submit an offline application for a name change in the passport. 

Step 1: Establish an affidavit containing the details of the applicant, including the old and new name, along with the reason for changing the name.

Step 2: Once the process is finished, the Gazette of India will publish the new name.

Step 3: Post two advertisements about changing the name in separate newspapers.

Step 4: Visit Passport Seva Kendra to submit your application to change the name on your passport.

Reasons to change name in passport

Here are some of the main reasons why you may choose to change the name in your passport.

• Changing your surname or the whole name after getting married

• Changing your surname after re-marriage

• Changing your surname after divorce

• Changing your surname or the whole name due to other reasons.

Documents required for change of name in passport

Depending on your situation, you will need to submit a few documents. The following sections list the different documents required for a change of name in the passport in India.

1. When changing passport name after marriage

In case a woman wants to change her name after marriage, the correction procedure requires these documents.

• A copy of the married woman’s passport or the passport of her husband

• Self-attested copies of the marriage certificates

2. When changing passport name after divorce

In case a woman wishes to change her surname after getting divorced, the passport correction process will require these documents.

• Certified divorce decree copy

• Sworn affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper

3. When changing passport name after re-marriage

If a change of name is required after getting re-married, one will need the following documents.

• Proof of divorce from husband or his death certificate

• Husband’s passport copy (if available)

• Copy of the certificate of marriage (self-attested)

4. When changing passport name in other circumstances

If one wants to change the name for any other reason, the following documents must be provided along with the application.

• Sworn affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper

• Advertisement in two newspapers in relation to changing the name 

Fees for changing the name in the passport

The change of name requires a re-issuance of the passport, which is chargeable depending on the validity, number of pages on the passport and the type of application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are a few commonly asked questions regarding the change of name in the passport.

Can I change my name in my passport?

Yes, you can change the name mentioned in your passport by submitting an application for the same via the Passport Seva portal.

Is it mandatory for women to change their names on their passports after getting married

No, it is not mandatory for women to change their names on their passports after marriage. 

Does the change of name in the passport require the original passport?

Yes, you need to submit your original passport to get a new one re-issued with the changed name. 

How long will I have to wait for the change of name in my passport?

It can take anywhere between 3 to 4 weeks to get the updated passport re-issued, depending on the complexity of the application.

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• How to check passport application status

• How to Apply for a Passport Online

Disclaimer: The above content is sourced from secondary sources on the internet and is meant for informational purposes only. It is subject to changes. It is recommended to take the help of an expert before making any related decision.