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How to Change Name on Your Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide

Team AckoDec 9, 2024

If you’ve recently changed your name or need to correct a mistake in your passport, you might be wondering how to go about it. Don’t worry! Updating your passport is a straightforward process, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through it in the simplest way possible. Let’s dive in!

How

Contents

Why Do You Need to Change Your Name in Passport?
How to Change Name on Passport: Two Easy Methods
- 1. Online Application for Passport Name Correction
- 2. Offline Application for Name Change in Passport
Reasons to Change Name in Passport
Documents Required for Passport Name Change
How Much Does It Cost to Change Name in Passport?
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do You Need to Change Your Name in Passport?

Your passport is one of the most important documents for travel, and its accuracy is key. If your name is misspelt or if you’ve recently changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or any personal reason, you’ll need to update your passport details to avoid any travel hassles.

How to Change Name on Passport: Two Easy Methods

There are two ways you can correct your name on your passport: online and offline. Let's take a look at both methods.

1. Online Application for Passport Name Correction

Changing your name online is quick and convenient. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Visit the official Passport Seva portal.
Step 2: Register and log in using your credentials.
Step 3: Select “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport” from the menu.
Step 4: Choose the option for “Re-issue of Passport” and mention that you want to update your name.
Step 5: Fill in the required details and provide the necessary documents (we’ll list them below).
Step 6: Agree to the terms and conditions, save your details, and proceed to the next step.
Step 7: Upload documents (proof of address, birth certificate, etc.).
Step 8: Make the payment and print the receipt.
Step 9: Book an appointment for your passport office visit.
Step 10: On the appointment day, visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) with the original documents and application receipt.

The passport office will verify your information and send your updated passport to your address.

2. Offline Application for Name Change in Passport

If you prefer to do it offline, here’s what you’ll need to do:

Step 1: Prepare an affidavit that includes your old and new name along with the reason for the name change.
Step 2: Once your affidavit is ready, wait for the Gazette of India to publish your new name.
Step 3: You’ll need to publish two advertisements in different newspapers regarding your name change.
Step 4: After completing the paperwork, visit your Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) to submit your application.

Reasons to Change Name in Passport

Here are some of the main reasons why you may choose to change the name on 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 Passport Name Change

Depending on your situation, you may need different documents. Let’s break it down:

Name Change After Marriage
1. A copy of your passport or your spouse’s passport.
2. Self-attested copy of your marriage certificate.
Name Change After Divorce
1. A certified copy of the divorce decree.
2. A sworn affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper.
Name Change After Re-marriage
1. Proof of divorce from the previous marriage or the death certificate of the previous spouse.
2. A self-attested copy of the new marriage certificate.
Name Change for Other Reasons
1. A sworn affidavit.
2. An advertisement in two newspapers about your name change.

These are the basic documents you may need. Always check the Passport Seva website for the specific documents required for your case.

How Much Does It Cost to Change Name in Passport?

Changing your name on your passport means you’ll be reissued a new one, and here’s what it will cost:

Passport with 10-year validity (36 pages) – Rs. 1,500
Passport with 10-year validity (60 pages) – Rs. 2,000
Tatkal Application – Rs. 2,000 (in addition to regular charges)

Final Thoughts

Getting your passport name correction done is a simple process, but it's essential to make sure all your details are accurate. Whether you choose to apply online or offline, make sure you have all the required documents, and don’t forget to double-check the name change format for passport.

By following the steps in this guide, you can easily navigate the passport name change process and ensure you’re good to go for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I change my name on my passport?

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

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.

Is police verification required for passport name change?

Yes, police verification is often required if your passport is being re-issued, especially if it has been expired for a long time.

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

No, women don't need to change their names on their passports after marriage.

Which payment gateway I can use for Online Payment?

An SBI gateway is used for online payments.

What should I do if I do not have a SBI Bank account?

If you are not using a SBI Bank account, you can make the payment using the Credit/Debit Card of any other bank.

Does changing your name on the passport affect your visa?

Yes, if you have a visa in your present passport, you will need to reapply with your updated name on the passport.

Is an affidavit enough for a name change in a passport in India?

Yes, you can apply to change your name on your passport using an affidavit.

Is an affidavit required for a name change in the passport?

Yes, it is mandatory to get an affidavit from the court to apply for a name change in the passport.

Does an affidavit count as legal proof for a passport?

Affidavits can serve as legal proof for passport verification because they provide address proof and other information about the applicant; however, a notary must notarize them.

Can we use a photocopy of the affidavit?

No. An affidavit is a solemn deed. Always, only the original affidavit is valid.

Which affidavit is needed to change the name on the passport?

A name correction affidavit is needed.

Is surname mandatory in a passport in India?

Yes, having a surname is generally expected, but you can have a passport without one if that's your legal name.

Can I change my name in Aadhar Card by Passport?

You cannot directly change your name in the Aadhar card using your passport. The name change process is independent for each document.

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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.