Passport Name Change Guide

Changed your name due to marriage, astrology, or spelling error? Here is the correct legal procedure to update it in your passport.

Case 1: Name Change After Marriage

This is the most common scenario. If you want to add your spouse's surname or change your surname completely.

Required Documents

  • ✅ Old Passport
  • ✅ Marriage Certificate (Issued by Registrar of Marriages)
  • ✅ Self-attested photocopy of spouse's passport (if available)

Note: Joint Affidavit (Annexure D) is no longer required in most cases if Marriage Certificate is provided.

Case 2: Complete Name Change

If you are changing your name for reasons other than marriage (e.g., Numerology, Personal preference), the process is stricter.

1

Newspaper Advertisement

You must publish a name change advertisement in two daily newspapers (one local language, one English) circulating in your area.

2

Gazette Notification

Publish the change in the official Gazette of India or State Gazette. This is the ultimate legal proof.

Case 3: Spelling Correction

Even a single letter change (e.g., "Smit" to "Smith") is treated as a Name Change.

  • If the mistake is in the passport but your documents (10th, Aadhaar) are correct: Apply for Re-issue with correct documents.
  • If your documents also have the wrong spelling: Correct them first before applying for a passport.

Gazette Notification Service

Getting a user name published in the Central Gazette can be complex. We assist with drafting the affidavit, newspaper ads, and Gazette application.

Get Gazette Help

Common Questions

Q: Do I need to change my name in Aadhaar first?

A: Yes. Your passport application will likely be rejected if your supporting documents (Aadhaar/PAN) do not match the new name you are applying for.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: It is treated as a "Re-issue". Fee is ₹1,500 (Normal) or ₹3,500 (Tatkaal).

Confused by the Legal Process?

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