Introduction of Change Your Name in an Indian Passport
Your passport is an essential travel document that not only serves as proof of your identity but also allows you to explore new destinations around the world. However, life is full of changes, and there may come a time when you need to update your passport to reflect a new name. Whether it’s due to marriage, divorce, or personal preference, the process of changing your name in an Indian passport can seem daunting. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process to change your name in an Indian passport.
- Gather the Required Documents: To initiate the name change process in your passport, you will need to gather the following essential documents:
a) Passport Application Form: Obtain the passport application form (Form DS-82) either online or from your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
b) Proof of Name Change: Depending on the reason for your name change, you will need to provide supporting documents such as marriage certificate, divorce decree, gazette notification, or affidavit, as applicable.
c) Identity Proof: Carry your original and photocopies of documents that serve as proof of your identity, such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID card, or driving license.
d) Address Proof: Provide original and photocopies of documents as proof of your current residential address, including utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements.
e) Passport-size Photographs: Carry recent passport-sized photographs as per the specifications prescribed by the passport authorities.
- Online Registration and Application Submission: a) Register on the Passport Seva Online Portal: Create an account on the Passport Seva Online Portal (www.passportindia.gov.in) by providing your basic details and generating a login ID and password.
b) Fill and Submit the Application Form: Log in to the portal using your credentials and fill out the passport application form accurately. Select the option for “Re-issue of Passport” and indicate the reason for the name change. Verify the information and submit the form.
- Book an Appointment: After submitting the application online, you need to book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Select a convenient date and time slot for the appointment.
- Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK): On the scheduled date, visit the PSK or POPSK along with all the necessary documents. Remember to carry the originals as well as photocopies of the documents for verification.
- Biometric Enrollment and Interview: At the PSK or POPSK, you will undergo biometric enrollment, which includes capturing your photograph, fingerprints, and signature. After biometric enrollment, you may be required to appear for a brief interview to confirm the details provided in your application.
- Pay the Applicable Fees: Pay the required passport fees at the PSK or POPSK counter. The fee structure varies depending on the type of passport and service you require. You can make the payment through cash, debit card, credit card, or demand draft.
- Track the Status of Your Application: After completing the process, you can track the status of your passport application online through the Passport Seva Online Portal. Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive an SMS and email notification.
- Collect Your Passport: Once your new passport is ready, you can collect it from the PSK or POPSK. Make sure to carry the original receipt provided at the time of submission as it is required for collecting your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the reasons for changing the name in an Indian passport?
A: The common reasons for changing the name in an Indian passport include marriage, divorce, legal name change, or personal preference.
Q2: What documents are required for changing the name in an Indian passport?
A: The documents required may vary based on the reason for the name change. Generally, you will need a passport application form, proof of name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, gazette notification, affidavit), identity proof, address proof, and passport-sized photographs.
Q3: How can I apply for a name change in my passport?
A: The application process involves registering on the Passport Seva Online Portal, filling and submitting the application form, booking an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK), visiting the PSK or POPSK for biometric enrollment and an interview, paying the applicable fees, and tracking the status of your application.
Q4: Can I apply for a name change online?
A: Yes, you can apply for a name change in your passport online through the Passport Seva Online Portal. However, you will still need to visit a PSK or POPSK for biometric enrollment and an interview.
Q5: How long does it take to change the name in an Indian passport?
A: The processing time for a name change in an Indian passport can vary. It typically takes around 15 to 30 days from the date of application submission. However, it may take longer in some cases, depending on the workload and other factors.
Q6: Is there an additional fee for changing the name in a passport?
A: Yes, there is a fee associated with changing the name in a passport. The fee depends on the type of passport service you require. The updated fee structure can be found on the official Passport Seva Online Portal.
Q7: Can I change my name in the passport without legal documentation?
A: No, you will generally need legal documentation to support your name change request. This may include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, gazette notification, or affidavit, depending on the reason for the name change.
Q8: Can I change my name in the passport if I am residing abroad?
A: Yes, you can change your name in the passport even if you are residing abroad. You can apply for a name change through the Indian embassy or consulate in your country of residence following the prescribed procedure.
Q9: Will my old passport be canceled after changing the name?
A: Yes, your old passport will be canceled and returned to you when you collect your new passport with the updated name.
Q10: Do I need to update my name in other official documents after changing it in my passport?
A: Yes, it is recommended to update your name in other official documents, such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID card, bank accounts, and other relevant records, to ensure consistency and avoid any complications in the future.
