Passport Name Correction
When travelling abroad, a passport acts as a means of verifying one’s identity. As a result, the accuracy of the information provided in a passport is of utmost importance.
A significant detail that is included in a passport is the holder’s name, and if an individual decides to change their name, it is necessary to update their passport accordingly.
To assist individuals who wish to change the name on their passports, we have prepared a guide.
The passport includes several essential pieces of information, such as the holder’s name and address.
Therefore, if the holder’s name is misspelt in the passport, it is essential to update it as soon as possible.
Similarly, if an individual has recently moved to a new address, but their passport indicates their previous address, they must update it.
Process to Correct or Change Name in the Passport
There are two options available to correct or change the name on your passport. You can either submit your application through the official portal or visit your local Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) to do so.
Online Application Process to Correct or Change the Name in the Passport
To correct or change your name on your passport through the online application process, follow these steps:
Step 1: Go to the official Passport Seva portal online.
Step 2: Register and log in using your credentials.
Step 3: Select “Apply for Fresh Passport or Re-issue of Passport” from the given list of options.
Step 4: Choose alternative 1 for the online application.
Step 5: Select “Re-issue of Passport” and indicate the details you wish to modify in your passport.
Step 6: Provide the required information related to the name change in your passport.
Step 7: Agree to the terms and conditions and save the information you have provided before proceeding to the next step.
Step 8: Choose the documents you want to submit as proof of your address and date of birth.
Step 9: Print the application form, make the payment, and obtain a receipt.
Step 10: Schedule an appointment according to the availability of slots.
Step 11: Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents and download the final receipt.
Next, attend the passport office on the day of your appointment and bring the application receipt and other pertinent documents. The officials will verify everything and send the updated passport to your home address via mail.
Offline Application Process to Correct or Change the Name in the Passport
To submit an offline application for correcting or changing your name on your passport, follow these steps:
Step 1: Create an affidavit that includes the applicant’s details, such as the old and new name, as well as the reason for changing the name.
Step 2: Wait for the Gazette of India to publish the new name after completing the affidavit process.
Step 3: Publish two advertisements in different newspapers about the name change.
Step 4: Go to the Passport Seva Kendra to submit your passport application with the updated name.
Reasons to Change Name in the Passport
Below are some common reasons why individuals may decide to change the name on their passport:
- Changing their surname or entire name after getting married.
- Changing their surname after remarrying.
- Changing their surname after divorce.
- Changing their surname or entire name for other personal reasons.
Documents Required to Change Name in the Passport
The documents needed for changing the name on a passport in India may vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. The subsequent sections outline the different documents that may be required.
To Change Name on Passport after Marriage
When changing the name in a passport after marriage, the correction process typically necessitates the following documents:
- A copy of the passport of the married woman or her husband’s passport.
- Self-attested copies of the marriage certificate.
To Change Name on Passport after Divorce
If a woman wants to change her last name or surname in her passport after a divorce, the passport correction process will likely require the following documents:
- A certified copy of the divorce decree.
- A sworn affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper.
To Change Name on Passport after Re-marriage
If a person needs to change their name on their passport after getting remarried, they will typically need the following documents:
- Proof of divorce from their previous husband or his death certificate.
- A copy of the previous husband’s passport (if available).
- A self-attested copy of the marriage certificate.
To Change Name on Passport in Other Circumstances
If an individual wishes to change their name on their passport for any other reason, the following documents must typically be provided along with the application:
- A sworn affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper.
- An advertisement in two newspapers regarding the name change.
Fees & Charges for Changing Name on Passport
To alter the name on a passport, a new one must be issued, and the cost will vary depending on the passport’s validity, number of pages, and application type.
| Service Type | 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) |
FAQs on Passport Name Correction
- Can my name be changed in my passport? It is possible to change the name on your passport by submitting an application through the Passport Seva portal.
- Is it compulsory for women to change their names on their passports after getting married? Changing the name on a passport after marriage is not a requirement for women.
- Does the name change process in the passport require the original passport? To obtain a re-issued passport with the updated name, it is necessary to provide the original passport as a part of the submission process.
- How long is the waiting period for the change of name in my passport? The duration for receiving the re-issued passport with the updated name can vary from 3 to 4 weeks, based on the intricacy of the application.
- What are the types of passports that are issued in India? India issues three types of passports, which are as follows: Ordinary Passport: This passport has either 36 or 60 pages and is valid for ten years from the date of issuance for adults. It can also be re-issued. However, for minors, the validity is limited to five years or until they turn 18, whichever comes first. Diplomatic Passport: This passport is designated for members authorized by the Government of India. Official Passport: This passport is issued to Government servants or other individuals authorized by the Government for official assignments abroad.
- What are the additional requirements for a passport that has expired for about four years? If you apply for the re-issue of a passport that has expired for more than three years, you will need to undergo a fresh police verification process.
- What is the process if my last issued passport was when I was 15, but now I’m 25?You need to apply for the re-issue of your passport.
- How can a passport be defined as damaged? A damaged passport can be classified based on the extent of the damage as follows: Damaged Passport: The passport number is legible, the name is readable, and the photo is intact. Damaged Beyond Recognition: The passport is damaged to such an extent that it cannot be recognized.
