To change your name on your passport in the UK, you will need to follow a simple process. According to multiple sources, including the UK government’s website, there are several scenarios in which you may need to change your name on your passport. These include changes due to marriage or civil partnership, divorce or returning to a previous surname, gender change, titles and small changes to forenames, and other name changes.
It is important to note that your passport name must match the one you use when booking travel, and time left on your old passport will not be added to your new one. Additionally, there are situations in which you may not need to get a new passport, such as changing your address or contact details, getting a new job, or making slight changes to your appearance.
The time it takes to get a new passport can vary, so it is important to check the processing times before applying. If you have a non-British passport, the name and gender on your non-British passport must match the name and gender you want on your British passport, so it may be necessary to change the details on your non-British passport before applying for a new British passport.
You can apply online or using a paper application form, and in certain cases, you may need to provide a countersignature or consider the validity of unexpired visas in your old passport.
How to Change Name on Passport?
Marriage or Civil Partnership Change
If you have recently gotten married or entered into a civil partnership and wish to change your name on your passport, there are a few options available. According to the UK government’s website, you can apply for a new passport in your new name either before or after the ceremony.
If you choose to get a new passport after the ceremony, you will need to send your marriage or civil partnership certificate when you apply. This includes double-barrelled names.
On the other hand, if you want to get a new passport before the ceremony, you can apply up to 3 months in advance. Your old passport will be cancelled, and your new passport will be ‘post-dated,’ meaning you cannot use it until after the ceremony.
It is important to note that some countries may not issue visas for post-dated passports, so it is advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
Additionally, you will need to include a ‘passports for newly weds and civil partners’ form with your application, which must be signed by the religious minister or registrar conducting the ceremony.
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Passports for newly weds and civil partners form
Divorce or Returning to a Previous Surname
If you have gone through a divorce or wish to return to a previous surname, you can change your name on your passport in the UK. The process for changing your name in these scenarios is similar to other name changes.
To change your name on your passport, you will need to apply for a new passport with your desired name. The UK government’s website outlines the application process that you need to follow.
The cost for changing your name on your passport in the UK is £82.50 if you apply online and £93.00 if you choose to apply using a paper application form.
If you prefer, you can use the Post Office’s Passport Check and Send service, which may incur additional fees. This service can help ensure that there are no faults on your application and may expedite the processing time for your new passport.
It’s important to note that if you have any unexpired visas in your current passport, they may become invalid when you change your name. Therefore, it’s advisable to check with the embassy or consulate of the issuing country to understand the implications of the name change.
When changing your name on your passport due to divorce or a return to a previous surname, following the correct procedures and providing the required documentation will ensure that your official identification reflects your desired name.
Gender Change
If you have undergone a gender change and wish to change your name on your passport to reflect your new identity, you can do so by following the same process as other name changes. It is important to ensure that the name and gender on your non-British passport, if you have dual citizenship, match the name and gender you want on your British passport. If they are different, it is necessary to change the details on your non-British passport before applying for a new British passport. The requirements and documentation needed for a gender change may vary, so it is advisable to consult the UK government’s guidelines or seek legal advice to ensure that you meet the necessary criteria and provide the required documentation.
Conclusion
Changing your name on your passport in the UK is a simple and straightforward process outlined by the UK government. Whether you need to change your name due to marriage, divorce, or a gender change, it is essential to ensure that your passport name matches the one you use when booking travel.
You have the option to apply for a new passport online or using a paper application form. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may be required to provide additional documentation, obtain a countersignature, or consider the validity of unexpired visas in your old passport.
To ensure a smooth and successful name change, be sure to check the processing times for passport applications and budget for the necessary fees. By following the correct procedures and submitting the required documentation, you can confidently change your name on your passport and have an official identification that reflects your desired name.
FAQs
Can I change my name on my passport after getting married?
Yes, if you have recently gotten married or entered into a civil partnership, you can change your name on your passport. You can apply for a new passport either before or after the ceremony, following the guidelines provided by the UK government.
How long do I have to change my name on my passport after getting married?
There is no strict time limit for changing your name on your passport after getting married. However, it is advisable to update your passport as soon as possible and to check with the UK government for any time constraints or specific requirements.
How much does it cost to change my name on my passport in the UK?
The cost for changing your name on your passport in the UK is £82.50 if applying online and £93.00 if applying using a paper application form. Additional fees may apply if you choose to use the Post Office’s Passport Check and Send service.
Can I change my name on my passport after a divorce or returning to a previous surname?
Yes, if you have gone through a divorce or wish to return to a previous surname, you can change your name on your passport. You will need to follow the same process as other name changes and provide the necessary documentation.
How do I change my name on my passport after a gender change?
To change your name on your passport after a gender change, you can follow the same process as other name changes. It is important to ensure that the name and gender on your non-British passport, if you have dual citizenship, match the name and gender you want on your British passport.