When You Need To Change Name In Passport

Passport holders must apply for a passport name change whenever their legal name changes. Updating your passport ensures that your identity documents remain consistent for international travel and visa applications. If your passport has also expired, you may need to complete the passport renewal process before applying for the name change.

Common situations where a passport name change is required:

• Marriage: Changing a surname or adding a spouse's name.

• Correction: Fixing spelling mistakes or typographical errors made in a previous application.

• Legal Change: A complete change of name for personal, religious, or professional reasons.

• Divorce: Reverting to a maiden name or removing a former spouse's name.

Documents Required For Passport Name Change

The documents required for passport name change vary based on the reason for the update. Ensure you carry originals and self-attested copies to your appointment.

Commonly required documents include:

• Existing Passport: Your current original booklet.

• Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID.

• For Marriage: Marriage Certificate or a Joint Photo Declaration (Annexure J).

• For Divorce: Certified copy of the Divorce Decree.

• For Legal Name Change: Original Gazette Notification and clippings of two newspaper advertisements (one in English and one in a local language).

• Affidavits: A self-declaration or deed poll for a name change.

How To Change Name In Passport Online

A name change is processed as a "Reissue of Passport." Follow these steps to initiate the process:

1. Register: Log in to the official Passport Seva portal.

2. Application Type: Select “Apply for Fresh Passport / Reissue of Passport.”

3. Specify Reason: Choose "Change in Existing Personal Particulars" and then select "Appearance/Name."

4. Fill the Form: Enter your new legal name exactly as it appears on your supporting documents.

5. Payment: Pay the reissue fee online.

6. Appointment: Book a slot at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

7. Address Update: If you have also moved to a new residence, you may need to apply for a passport address change along with the name update.

Passport Name Change After Marriage vs. Legal Change

Name Change After Marriage

For most women updating their surname after marriage, the process is streamlined. Usually, only a Marriage Certificate or a Joint Declaration is required. A Gazette notification is typically not needed for a simple surname change due to marriage.

Legal Name Change (Major Change)

If you are changing your first name or undergoing a complete name overhaul, the requirements are stricter. You must:

1. Execute a Deed Poll or Affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper.

2. Publish a Newspaper Advertisement in two daily newspapers.

3. Submit a Gazette Notification (mandatory for major name changes).

Passport Name Change Fees

Since a name change requires a brand-new booklet with a fresh passport number, it is charged as a reissue:

36-Page Booklet = ₹1,500+ ₹2,000 for Tatkaal

60-Page Booklet₹2,000+ ₹2,000 for Tatkaal

Note: Major name changes are generally not eligible for the Tatkaal scheme and must be processed under the Normal category.