1. Why Should I Add My Spouse’s Name to My Passport?
FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport Adding your spouse’s name to your passport serves as an official recognition of your marital status. This can be useful for visa applications, travel, and legal purposes. Some countries may also require spouses to have matching information on travel documents when applying for dependent or family visas.
2. Is It Mandatory to Add My Spouse’s Name to My Passport?
No, it is not mandatory to add your spouse’s name to your passport. However, it is recommended for those who frequently travel together, as it can simplify visa processes and legal documentation.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
3. When Can I Add My Spouse’s Name to My Passport?
You can add your spouse’s name at any time after marriage. This can be done while renewing your passport or by applying for a reissue of your existing passport.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
4. What Documents Are Required to Add My Spouse’s Name?
To add your spouse’s name, you will typically need:
- Original and self-attested copies of your marriage certificate issued by a competent authority
- Your original passport and a self-attested copy of the first and last pages
- Your spouse’s passport copy (if applicable)
- A joint photograph of the couple (if requested by authorities)
- A self-attested copy of Aadhaar card, voter ID, or other government-approved ID showing marital status
- A duly filled passport application form
- FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
5. What Is the Procedure for Adding My Spouse’s Name?
The process involves these steps:
- Visit the Passport Seva website and log in.
- Select “Reissue of Passport” under the appropriate reason (change in personal particulars – addition of spouse’s name).
- Fill out the application form and upload the necessary documents.
- Book an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
- Visit the PSK with original documents for verification.
- Complete biometric verification and submit documents.
- Track your application online until the updated passport is issued.
6. How Long Does the Process Take?
The processing time varies depending on whether you apply under the normal or Tatkal scheme. Under the normal scheme, it typically takes 2–4 weeks, while the Tatkal scheme may take 1–3 days, provided all documents are in order. However, final approval depends on the discretion of the passport office.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
7. Can I Apply Under the Tatkal Scheme for Adding My Spouse’s Name?
Yes, you can apply under the Tatkal scheme for adding your spouse’s name, provided your documents are complete and verified. However, the final decision rests with the passport authorities.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
8. Do I Need Police Verification for Adding My Spouse’s Name?
Police verification may be required depending on the case. If your address remains unchanged and your marital status is updated with valid proof, police verification may not be necessary. However, if there is a change of address along with the name addition, police verification is generally required.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
9. Can I Remove My Spouse’s Name in Case of Divorce or Separation?
Yes, if you are divorced or separated, you can apply for a passport reissue to remove your spouse’s name. You will need:
- A divorce decree from a competent court
- An affidavit stating the change in marital status
- Any other supporting documents requested by the passport office
10. What If My Spouse Is a Foreigner?
If your spouse is a foreign national, you can still add their name to your passport. You may need to submit their passport copy and a self-declaration stating your marriage details. Some passport offices may request additional documents for verification.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
11. Is There an Additional Fee for Adding My Spouse’s Name?
There is no separate fee for adding your spouse’s name, but since this requires a passport reissue, you must pay the standard reissue charges. The fee varies based on the number of pages and the validity period selected.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
12. What Happens If There Is a Discrepancy in the Documents?
If there is any discrepancy in your marriage certificate or other documents, your application may be put on hold or rejected. Ensure that all documents are correctly issued and attested before applying. In case of rejection, you may be asked to submit additional documents or rectify errors.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
13. Can I Apply for a Name Change Along with Adding My Spouse’s Name?
Yes, you can request a name change (such as adopting your spouse’s surname) along with adding your spouse’s name. You will need additional documents such as a notarized affidavit and newspaper publication confirming the name change.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
14. Will Adding My Spouse’s Name Affect My Passport Number?
No, your passport number remains the same. However, you will receive a new passport booklet reflecting the updated marital status and personal details.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
15. Can My Spouse Apply on My Behalf?
No, the applicant must personally apply for the passport reissue and appear for biometric verification at the Passport Seva Kendra. However, spouses can assist with documentation and online form submission.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
16. What If My Spouse’s Name Is Incorrectly Printed on the Passport?
If your spouse’s name is printed incorrectly on the passport, you should immediately apply for a reissue under the “Correction in Personal Particulars” category. Submit supporting documents showing the correct name.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
17. Can I Travel While My Passport Is Being Updated?
If your passport is submitted for reissue, you cannot travel until you receive the updated passport. Plan accordingly if you have upcoming travel plans.FAQs About Adding a Spouse’s Name to a Passport
18. Can I Add My Spouse’s Name If I Am a Widow/Widower?
Yes, if you are a widow or widower, you can have your deceased spouse’s name mentioned in your passport. You will need to submit the death certificate of your spouse along with your application.
19. What If My Marriage Certificate Is in a Regional Language?
If your marriage certificate is in a regional language, it must be translated into English or Hindi and attested by a notary or relevant authority before submission.
20. How Do I Track the Status of My Application?
You can track your application status by:
- Visiting the Passport Seva website
- Entering your application reference number
- Checking email or SMS updates from the passport office
Conclusion
Adding your spouse’s name to your passport is a straightforward process that enhances the credibility of your marital status for official purposes. Ensuring all documents are in order will help avoid delays or rejections. If you have further queries, you can contact the Passport Seva customer support or visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra for assistance.
