Indian Passport Name change for Minor(<18): Documents, Gazette & Proofs

Changing a minor’s name on their passport in India requires careful documentation and preparation to ensure a smooth experience at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Whether the change is due to a spelling correction, adoption, or a legal name change, submitting the correct documents is essential for a successful re-issue.In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the documents needed for name change for a minor

Name change for Minor

• 1. Documents for Passport Re-Issue (for Minors)
  • ✅ Essential Documents
• 2. Mandatory Documents for Minor Name Change
• 3. Understanding the Non-ECR (ECNR) Category for Minors
  • 📋 Required Document:
  • How a Minor Qualifies for Non-ECR Status:
• ✅ Final Tips for a Smooth PSK Appointment
  • 🧾 Summary: Quick Checklist for Minor’s Name Change in Passport

1. Documents for Passport Re-Issue (for Minors)

These are the standard documents required when you’re re-issuing an existing passport booklet for a child. Make sure you have both originals and self-attested copies ready before your PSK appointment.

✅ Essential Documents

1. Original Old Passport
   The existing passport booklet of the minor must be produced in original.
2. Self-Attested Copies of Passport Pages
   Photocopies of:
   • First two and last two pages of the old passport
   • ECR/Non-ECR page
   • Observation or validity extension page (if any)
3. Observation/Extension Page
   If there is any observation made by the Passport Issuing Authority or a short validity extension, include those pages.
4. Proof of Present Address
   A valid address proof in the name of either parent or legal guardian. Acceptable documents include:
   • Aadhaar Card
   • Electricity Bill
   • Bank Passbook
   • Water Bill
   • Rental Agreement
5. Minor’s Proof of Date of Birth (DoB)
   Typically a Birth Certificate or School Leaving Certificate.

2. Mandatory Documents for Minor Name Change

If you’re applying for a name change in a minor’s passport, the government requires legal proof to validate the new name. These are additional documents on top of the core reissue documents.

Document	Purpose	Notes
Proof of Name Change	Legal evidence of the new name.	At least two public documents or school certificates issued in the new name, OR Gazette Notification of the State/Central Government.
Annexure ‘E’ Affidavit	Declaration for name change.	A notarized affidavit declaring the old name and the new name.
Newspaper Advertisements	Public announcement (required for major name changes).	Clippings of advertisements in two local newspapers—one in the area of permanent residence and one in the area of current residence.
Annexure ‘D’	Parental consent for minor’s passport.	Both parents must sign the declaration and are usually required to be present at the PSK.
Passport of Parents	Proof of parents/legal guardian details.	Original and self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages of both parents’ passports.

💡 Important Note:
If the name change involves more than a minor correction (like adding a surname or changing the first name), a Gazette Notification and newspaper advertisements are mandatory. These ensure that the name change is legally recognized and publicly documented.

3. Understanding the Non-ECR (ECNR) Category for Minors

When reissuing or updating a passport, you’ll encounter the term ECR (Emigration Check Required) and Non-ECR (ECNR). This status determines whether emigration clearance is needed for travel abroad for employment.

For minor applicants, the Non-ECR status is generally automatic, but the correct documentation is still required.

📋 Required Document:

• Documentary proof for any one of the Non-ECR categories.

How a Minor Qualifies for Non-ECR Status:

1. Minor’s Age
   All minors (under 18 years) are automatically eligible for Non-ECR (ECNR) status. You simply need to provide proof like:
   • Birth Certificate, or
   • School Certificate
2. Parents’ Qualification
   If either parent holds a Non-ECR passport—typically granted to those who have completed at least Matriculation (10th grade)—then the minor automatically qualifies. Submit:
   • A copy of the parent’s educational qualification (Matriculation or Degree Certificate), or
   • The parent’s passport showing Non-ECR status.

✅ Final Tips for a Smooth PSK Appointment

• Double-check all documents for consistency in names, addresses, and spellings.
• Carry both originals and photocopies—PSK officials will verify originals but retain copies.
• If both parents cannot be present, ensure proper authorization or supporting documentation as per PSK guidelines.
• Schedule an appointment online through the Passport Seva Portal and review the document checklist for your case.

🧾 Summary: Quick Checklist for Minor’s Name Change in Passport

Category	Documents Required
Core Documents	Old Passport, Address Proof, DoB Proof, Self-attested copies
Name Change Proof	Gazette Notification / School Certificates / Affidavit / Newspaper Ads
Parental Documents	Annexure D, Parents’ Passports, Educational Certificates
Non-ECR Proof	Parent’s ECNR Passport / Educational Certificate

Changing a minor’s name on an Indian passport may seem complicated, but with the right preparation, it’s straightforward. Ensure every document is valid, self-attested, and organized according to PSK requirements. Always confirm the latest document checklist on the official Passport Seva website before your appointment.