Apply for passport is an important document that proves your identity and nationality when you travel outside your country. It carries important details such as your full name, date of birth, photograph, and address. If there is any change in your details, like your name or address, you need to update your passport to keep it correct and valid.

Many people may change their address after moving to a new place or change their name due to marriage, divorce, or personal choice. It is important to update these details in your passport to avoid problems during travel, visa applications, or legal work.

In this guide, we will explain everything about how to change your name or address in your passport in simple, easy-to-understand steps. We will also talk about why it is necessary, what documents are required, and how to apply both online and offline.

Why You Should Update Your Passport

It is very important to keep your passport updated with your latest details. Here are some reasons why:

  • Avoid Travel Issues: Incorrect details can cause problems at immigration or airport security.

  • Visa Applications: Most visa applications require your passport details to match your legal documents.

  • Proof of Identity: A passport is used as a strong identity proof for many official and financial works.

  • Avoid Legal Problems: If the information is incorrect, it can create legal complications in other countries.

  • Stay Valid and Acceptable: An updated passport is valid and acceptable everywhere.

When Should You Change Your Address or Name in Your Passport?

You should apply for a change in your passport when:

  1. You have moved to a new permanent address.

  2. You have changed your name after marriage.

  3. You have changed your name legally through a government gazette notification.

  4. You have changed your name after a divorce.

  5. You have corrected a spelling mistake in your name or address.

Types of Passport Changes

There are two major types of changes you can apply for in your passport:

  1. Change in Name: If your name has changed legally or due to marriage or divorce.

  2. Change in Address: If your permanent residential address has changed after moving to a new house, city, or state.

Documents Required for Changing Address or Name in Passport

Before applying, make sure to collect the necessary documents based on the change you are applying for. The list of documents may differ depending on whether you are changing your address or name.

Documents for Changing Address

  1. Old Passport (original and copy)

  2. Proof of New Address (any one of the following):

    • Aadhaar Card

    • Voter ID

    • Electricity Bill

    • Telephone Bill

    • Gas Connection Bill

    • Water Bill

    • Rent Agreement

    • Bank Statement with new address

    • Registered Sale Deed

  3. Self-attested copies of the above documents

Documents for Changing Name

If name change is due to marriage:

  • Old Passport (original and copy)

  • Marriage Certificate (original and copy)

  • Joint photograph (optional)

  • Spouse’s Passport copy (if applicable)

If name change is due to divorce:

  • Old Passport (original and copy)

  • Divorce Decree certified copy

  • Self-declaration about reverting to maiden name (if applicable)

If name change is for other personal/legal reasons:

  • Old Passport (original and copy)

  • Gazette Notification of name change

  • Newspaper advertisements (if required)

  • Self-declaration stating the reason for name change

Important Points to Remember

  1. Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining when applying for changes.

  2. Never provide false documents or incorrect information.

  3. Make sure to carry both original documents and photocopies.

  4. Keep a copy of the application receipt and payment slip.

  5. Track your application status regularly on the Passport Seva portal.

  6. Police verification is compulsory in most cases.

  7. If changing name due to marriage, your spouse’s details may be added to your passport.

How Long Does It Take?

  1. Normal Application: Around 15 to 30 working days after police verification.

  2. Tatkal Application: 1 to 3 working days (if eligible for pre-police verification).

Note: Now you can easily apply for Tatkal passport through our website

Conclusion

Changing your address or name in your passport is an important step if your details have changed. It helps you avoid problems during travel, visa applications, or legal processes. The process is quite simple if you follow the correct steps, provide valid documents, and apply carefully.

Both online and offline methods are available. It is easier and faster to apply online using the Passport Seva website, where you can fill out the form, pay the fee, and book an appointment from your home.

Always keep your passport details updated and accurate. It not only helps in easy travel but also keeps your identity clear and verified for all government and official uses.

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