Indian Passport: Step by Step Guide to Change Name and Address Online

The Indian passport is a vital document that serves as proof of identity, particularly during international travel. Updating one’s passport to change to the current address after a move and, similarly, correcting any inaccuracies, like misspelt names or changed surnames due to marriage, can enable one to maintain and ensure the accuracy of the passport details.

The process of updating details in an Indian passport involves several steps as per the regulations outlined by the Passport Seva system under the Ministry of External Affairs of India. To rectify a misspelt name, change a surname, or update the address in the passport, an individual must apply for a passport re-issue. Below are the steps outlined to change the name and address on the Indian passport online.

How to change name and address in an Indian passport online:

To change the name on a passport, individuals seeking to correct a misspelt name or update their surname must initiate a reissue process. 

 

Step 1: Begin by visiting the official Passport Seva website and selecting the ‘Register Now’ option to create an account.

Step 2: Log in using your registered ID and choose the ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport’ option.

Step 3: Fill out the application form with the necessary details.

Step 4: Proceed to pay the designated fee and schedule an appointment at your nearest Regional Passport Office (RPO) or Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

Step 5: Print the application receipt, which includes your application reference number (ARN), after completing the form.

Step 6: On the scheduled date, visit the nearest passport office with the original documents for verification.

 

Alternatively, you can download an e-form, fill it out, validate it, and save the file. Follow the aforementioned steps and upload the XML file to book an appointment with the passport office.

What are the documents required for the name change?

Here is a comprehensive list of documents required for various name change scenarios in a passport:

After marriage:

  • Marriage certificate (original and photocopy)
  • Self-attested photocopy of spouse’s passport
  • Proof of current address
  • Old passport with self-attested photocopies of the first and last two pages, including the ECR/Non-ECR page
  • Validity extension page and observation page in the old passport, if applicable

After divorce:

  • A certified copy of the divorce decree
  • Affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper

After re-marriage:

  • Proof of divorce from the previous husband or his death certificate
  • Husband’s passport copy (if available)
  • A self-attested copy of the marriage certificate

Other Circumstances:

  • Affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper
  • Advertisements in two newspapers regarding the name change

What are the documents required for the address change?

Here is a list of documents needed to change the address in your passport:

  • Original passport
  • Copy of the online application
  • Copy of the payment receipt or challan
  • Proof of current address (e.g., Aadhaar card, utility bills, voter ID card)
  • A self-attested copy of the observation page by the passport issuing authority
  • Spouse’s passport (if the applicant’s current address matches the spouse’s passport address)

Please note that each scenario requires specific documentation to support the name and address change process in the passport. One can also refer to the official website to know the documents required for the re-issue of the Indian passport for specific reasons and learn more.

While it is not mandatory to change the name and address on the Indian passport, it is advisable to update the information to ensure accuracy and prevent any compliance issues.

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