Changing names on an Indian passport can seem like a procedure packed with a lot of hassle. On the contrary, it is quite straightforward, thanks to the availability of both online and offline outlets. If you are wondering how to change your name on a passport, continue reading this simple guide.
Process to Change Name on Your Passport
There are two methods for changing the name on a passport: online and offline. Let us understand the steps to complete the process in both cases.
1. How to change the name on a passport online
Changing names on passports online is fairly easy. Here are the steps showing how to change the name on a passport online:
- Visit the official website of Passport Seva Kendra.
- Complete the registration process and login with credentials.
- Choose the "Apply for Fresh Passport or Re-issue of Passport" option from the menu.
- Select alternative 1 for the online application.
- Tap on the "Re-issue of Passport" option and confirm the details that require changing.
- Update all the details necessary for the name change.
- Select and upload all the documents for submission, including the date of birth and proof of address.
- Get the application form printed out for the next steps.
- Choose a payment option, complete the payment, and download the receipt.
- Schedule an appointment at the nearest passport office.
- Upload scanned copies of the document and get soft copies of the final receipt.
Visit the Regional Passport Office or Passport Seva Kendra on the scheduled day with the application receipt and other relevant documents for further intervention by the officials. After successful verification, the applicant will get a brand-new passport through Speed Post delivery.
2. How to change the name on passport offline
Here are the instructions to submit an offline application for modifying the name on a passport:
- Prepare an affidavit with all the pertinent information, including the name and the reason for changing the name. Then, wait for the Gazette of India to publish the affidavit.
- Publish one advertisement each in two newspapers about the applicant's name change. (It is advisable to choose newspapers with different languages, i.e. English and one local language.)
- Visit the Passport Seva Kendra to apply with the updated name.
Conclusion
Changing your name on your Indian passport involves several steps, whether we go with the online route or offline. With this convenient guide and all the necessary documents, we can navigate this task smoothly and update our passport easily. Now you are free to follow your dreams of travelling abroad! Don't forget to consider updating your travel insurance with your new passport details for seamless travel planning.