Going through a divorce marks a significant life change, and updating your official documents, particularly your passport, is a crucial administrative step. After a divorce, you may need to apply for a Re-issue of Passport to make two primary changes:
- Passport Reissue for Divorcees
- Your Divorce Passport Document Kit: The Essentials
- 1. The Old Passport (Your History)
- 2. Legal Proof of Separation (Your Authority)
- 3. Reverting Your Name (Your New Identity)
- 4. Emigration Status Proof (Your Eligibility)
- Quick Guide to the PSK Application
- Clarity on ECR / Non-ECR
- Delete your former spouse’s name from the passport.
- Change your name, typically by reverting to your maiden name or adopting a new name.
The application for this change falls under the category of ‘Change in Existing Personal Particulars’. Here is the detailed, official checklist of documents required for divorcees applying for a passport reissue.
Passport Reissue for Divorcees
- Your Divorce Passport Document Kit: The Essentials
- Quick Guide to the PSK Application
- Clarity on ECR / Non-ECR
Your Divorce Passport Document Kit: The Essentials
The application process is categorized as a “Change in Existing Personal Particulars.” You must present conclusive legal proof of your divorce along with the standard documents.
1. The Old Passport (Your History)
Your current passport acts as proof of your past identity, which is essential for the government to issue the new one.
| Document | Requirement | Notes |
| Old Passport | Original document required for cancellation. | Must be physically presented at the PSK. |
| Self-Attested Photocopies | Copies of the first two and last two pages. | Includes your personal details and validity. |
| Observation/Extension Pages | Copy of the ECR/Non-ECR page and any observation/extension pages. | Only required if these specific pages exist in your current booklet. (If no observations exist, no copy is needed.) |
2. Legal Proof of Separation (Your Authority)
To delete your ex-spouse’s name, you must submit formal, legal documentation:
- Certified Copy of Divorce Decree/Order: This is the most critical document. It must be a certified copy of the divorce decree or order issued by a competent Indian Court of Law. This document legally authorizes the deletion of the former spouse’s name.
3. Reverting Your Name (Your New Identity)
If you are changing your surname (e.g., reverting to your maiden name), you generally need a formal declaration:
- Deed Poll / Sworn Affidavit (Annexure ‘E’): You must submit a Sworn Affidavit (often referred to as Annexure ‘E’ in the instruction booklet) on a non-judicial stamp paper. This officially declares your intention to revert to your former name and affirms that you are the same person.
4. Emigration Status Proof (Your Eligibility)
You must establish your right to a Non-ECR status to ensure the correct stamp is placed (or, more accurately, not placed) in your new passport.
- Non-ECR Documentary Proof: Provide proof for any one of the Non-ECR categories you meet.
- Common Proof: A copy of your Matriculation (10th Standard) Pass Certificate or any higher degree/diploma certificate is sufficient proof.
Quick Guide to the PSK Application
The process is managed through the official Passport Seva portal:
- Online Application: Register or log in at the official Passport Seva website.
- Select Re-issue: Choose “Re-issue of Passport” and then select “Change in Existing Personal Particulars.”
- Specify Changes: Tick the boxes for “Spouse Name” (for deletion) and “Name” (for change/reversion). Select “Divorced” as your marital status.
- Appointment: Pay the fee online and book your appointment at the nearest PSK or POPSK.
- Visit: Arrive at the PSK with all the original documents listed above, plus one set of self-attested photocopies.
Clarity on ECR / Non-ECR
If you are a graduate, post-graduate, or have passed your 10th standard, you fall under the Non-ECR category. This status is vital to avoid unnecessary emigration checks when traveling abroad for employment.
👉 Need More Detail? If you have doubts about ECR and Non-ECR Category read here!
👉 Official Source: https://www.passportindia.gov.in/psp/docAdvisor/reissuePassport