Your Guide to Changing Your Name on Your UK Passport
Changing your name is a significant life event, whether it's due to marriage, divorce, or simply the desire for a new identity. Once you have your Deed Poll or other relevant documents in hand, one of the most important official steps is to update your passport. A passport in your current, correct name is essential for travel and is a key piece of identification. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free update.
It’s Not an Amendment, It’s a New Application
The first thing to understand is that you cannot simply amend the name on your existing passport. A name change requires you to apply for a completely new passport. When your new passport is issued, any remaining time on your old one (up to nine months) will be added to your new one. Your old passport will be cancelled and returned to you.
Passport Name Change: The Application Process
- Online Application: This is the cheaper and often faster method. You can complete the entire process through the official HM Passport Office website. You will need a digital photo and a way to pay the fee online.
- Paper Application: You can get a paper application form from most Post Offices. This method is slightly more expensive. The Post Office also offers a "Check and Send" service for an additional fee, where they will check your application to make sure it's filled out correctly before sending it off.
Documents You’ll Need
The most important part of your application is providing the correct documentary evidence of your name change. What you need to send depends on the reason for your new name:
- Changing Your Name by Deed Poll: If you have changed your first name, last name, or both, you will need to include your original Deed Poll document with your passport application. This is your legal proof that you have changed your name for all purposes. Learn More..
- After Marriage or Civil Partnership: If you are taking your spouse's surname or creating a double-barrelled name, you can simply provide your marriage or civil partnership certificate as evidence. A Deed Poll is not usually required in this instance.
- Reverting to a Former Name After Divorce: If you are divorced and wish to go back to your previous name, you will need to send your decree absolute (or final order) and your marriage certificate. You may also need your birth certificate to show the link between your names. You will also need to include a signed statement confirming that you have gone back to using your former name for all purposes.
- For a Child's Passport: To change a child's name on their passport, you will need their Deed Poll and a letter of consent from everyone who holds parental responsibility for the child. Learn More..
Sending Your Documents
All supporting documents, including your old passport and the proof of your name change, must be sent to HM Passport Office. It is highly recommended that you send these important documents using a secure, tracked delivery service.
Updating your passport is a vital step in making your new name official. By ensuring you have the right documents and following the application process carefully, you can make the experience a simple and successful one, leaving you ready for your next adventure with a passport that truly reflects who you are.
How We Can Help
Ready to change your name? We offers a fast and affordable online service for a professionally drafted Deed Poll. We guarantee our legally compliant documents will be accepted by all UK organisations, making your name change simple and worry-free.