For many women in India, marriage involves a change in name, which could mean adopting a new surname, changing the middle name, or adding the spouse’s name. Updating your passport is a crucial step to ensure all your official travel and identity documents remain consistent. This requires applying for a Re-issue of Passport under the category of ‘Change in Existing Personal Particulars’.
- Passport ReIssue After Marriage
- Mandatory Documents for Name Change After Marriage
- 1. Your Old Passport (Original and Copies)
- 2. Documentary Proof for Change of Name
- 3. Documentary Proof for Non-ECR Status
- 4. Spouse’s Passport (Optional, but Recommended)
- The Step-by-Step Application Process
- Clarification on ECR and Non-ECR Categories
Here is the complete, official guide to the documents required for a woman to change her name in her Indian passport after marriage.
Passport ReIssue After Marriage
- Mandatory Documents for Name Change After Marriage
- The Step-by-Step Application Process
- Clarification on ECR and Non-ECR Categories
Mandatory Documents for Name Change After Marriage
1. Your Old Passport (Original and Copies)
You must present your existing passport for verification of your previous identity details.
- Old Passport in original: This is mandatory for cancellation and re-issue.
- Self-attested photocopies of the first two and last two pages.
- This includes the ECR/Non-ECR page (previously ECNR) and any page of observation made by the Passport Issuing Authority.
- Also include the validity extension page, if any, in respect of a short validity passport.
2. Documentary Proof for Change of Name
While the provided list is concise, the Passport Seva system requires definitive proof of your marriage and name change. You must submit the following:
- Marriage Certificate: A self-attested photocopy of the Marriage Certificate issued by the Registrar of Marriages is the most common and accepted proof. OR
- Joint Affidavit (Annexure D): If a marriage certificate is unavailable, a joint affidavit signed by both husband and wife (as per the prescribed Annexure D format) confirming the marriage and the name change is required.
3. Documentary Proof for Non-ECR Status
You must provide proof to confirm you are eligible for the Non-ECR (Emigration Check Not Required) category. This is standard for nearly all passport applications unless you fall strictly into the ECR category.
- Non-ECR Documents for Passport (provide any one):
- Educational Qualification Certificate: Matriculation (10th Standard) Pass Certificate or any higher educational degree/diploma.
- Any other valid proof listed by the MEA, such as being an Income Tax Payer, being above 50 years of age, etc.
4. Spouse’s Passport (Optional, but Recommended)
- Self-attested photocopy of the spouse’s Passport (Document Code 8085): This document is listed as Optional (O). However, submitting a copy of your spouse’s passport helps expedite the process by providing ready proof of their correct name and details for inclusion in your document.
| Document Code | Document Description | Mandatory / Optional |
|---|---|---|
| 8017 | Old Passport in original with self-attested photocopy of the first two and last two pages, including ECR/Non-ECR page (previously ECNR), and the page of observation (if any) made by the Passport Issuing Authority. Also include the validity extension page, if applicable for short-validity passports. | Mandatory |
| 8015 | Documentary proof for any one of the Non-ECR (previously ECNR) categories. See the full list of acceptable documents for Non-ECR eligibility. | Mandatory |
| 8085 | Self-attested photocopy of the spouse’s passport. | Optional |
The Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow the official procedure through the Passport Seva portal:
- Online Application: Visit the official Passport Seva website.
- Select Service: Log in or register and choose “Apply for Re-issue of Passport.”
- Specify Change: Under the reason for re-issue, select “Change in Existing Personal Particulars” and specifically choose “Spouse Name” and/or “Name.”
- Form Filling: Accurately fill out the online application form, ensuring the new name is correctly entered.
- Payment & Appointment: Pay the required fee online and schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
- PSK Visit: Carry all original documents and one set of self-attested photocopies for verification on your appointment date.
Clarification on ECR and Non-ECR Categories
If you are unsure about your Emigration Check status, it is important to clarify it before applying:
- ECR (Emigration Check Required): Applies mainly to citizens who have not passed the 10th grade and are taking up non-professional employment in certain countries.
- Non-ECR (Emigration Check Not Required): Applies to individuals who are Matriculates (10th Pass) or above, income taxpayers, government employees, and specific categories of professionals and travelers.
👉 Internal Link Suggestion: If you have doubts about ECR and Non – ECR Category read here!
Always rely on the official government source for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding annexures, fees, and rules:
👉 Official Source: https://www.passportindia.gov.in/psp/docAdvisor/reissuePassport