Last Updated on October 31, 2024 by Tracey Roberts
Passport Update | Name Change
Have you just got married? Congratulations! But now the challenging part is changing your last name on everything. You will have to change your driver’s license and identity document, update your bank accounts, and might even want to notify your friends and family of your new name.
But what about your passport? If you’ve recently changed your name – for any reason, not just marriage – don’t worry. Updating your passport is easy! In this blog post, we will explain the process of changing the name on your UK passport.
Highlights:
- You must apply for a new passport if you have legally changed your name.
- To apply for a new passport, you will need a recent digital passport photo, the required fee, and a completed application form.
- Only original versions of certificates or original government-certified/issued documents (birth, adoption, marriage, death, divorce) will be accepted as supporting documents.
- For traveling purposes, regulatory guidelines advise that the name on your flight ticket should be exactly the same as the name on your passport.
Changing your name on your British passport is an important expectation for any British citizen who has legally changed their name. Whether it’s due to marriage, divorce, or personal choice, updating your passport ensures that your travel documents reflect your current legal identity.
Passport Update: Do I need to apply for a new passport to change my name?
The short answer is yes. You will need to apply for a new passport if you have legally changed your name, including your first, middle, or last name. You will need to update your passport if you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, civil partnership, deed poll, or any other reason.
This can be done by filling out an online application form and sending it in with the required documentation. Your existing British passport will be immediately cancelled and replaced with a new one in the new name.
What documents do you need for a UK passport name change?
To apply for a new passport, you will need a recent digital passport photo, the required fee, and a completed application form.
In addition to this, the following will be needed to prove your name change:
- If the applicant uses a different first, middle, or last name than the one on their birth certificate, an original official name change document from the relevant department (or deed poll) must be submitted.
- If the name change is due to marriage, provide an original extended version of the marriage certificate. If the passport applicant was married more than once, give all original divorce, death and marriage certificates.
- When reverting to a previous name, an official certified letter from you declaring your name change and proof of the same will be needed.
Only original versions of certificates or original government-certified/issued documents (birth, adoption, marriage, death, divorce) will be accepted as supporting documents. NO photocopies or laminated documents will be accepted. Documents not in English – including documents showing an address – must be fully translated by a professional translator.
How long does a name change on a passport take?
We at U.K.ABROAD have been experiencing a turnaround time averaging 3 to 4 weeks or sooner.
We recommend applying soon, especially if you have upcoming travel plans. However, you can apply for an Emergency Travel Document if you must travel urgently and cannot wait. This will allow you to travel outside the UK for a limited time. You can find more information about emergency travel documents here.
Can I fly with a different name on my passport?
Regulatory guidelines advise that the name on your flight ticket should be exactly the same as the name on your passport. You will not be allowed to travel on a passport with one name and a flight ticket under a different name, even if the names are variations of each other (e.g., the passport name is ‘John Smith’ and the flight ticket is booked under ‘Jon Smith’).
If you have already booked your flights and need to change the name on your passport, you will need to update your passport first and then contact the airline to make the necessary changes to your booking.
Do I have to change my name on my passport after marriage?
Yes, you should change your name on your passport after marriage if you plan to use your new name while traveling. Having your passport match your married name helps avoid complications with airlines, as ticket and passport names must align exactly to meet regulatory requirements. Updating your passport not only ensures smoother travel but also keeps your identification consistent across all your official documents. With U.K.ABROAD, changing your name on your passport is straightforward, so you can enjoy peace of mind on all your future travels.
About U.K.ABROAD
U.K.ABROAD specialises in British passport applications, renewals and replacements for British citizens living abroad. If you are a British citizen living abroad and need to update the name on your UK passport, U.K.ABROAD can assist you.
We have a team of British passport experts on hand to help with any questions you might have about passport name changes.
Absolutely fantastic service from Elyse who looked after my British passport renewal. She answered all my questions promptly and the communication and updates at every step was consistent.
How to apply for a name change on your UK passport with U.K.ABROAD
Applying for a name change on your UK passport is simple when using the services of U.K.ABROAD. Complete the online application form (click here), make a secure online payment using your credit or debit card, and send in the required documentation.
Your dedicated British passport consultant will guide you through the process step-by-step and keep you informed as your passport is processed. Your new British passport will be couriered directly to your registered address abroad.
For more information about passport name changes or to begin your application, contact U.K.ABROAD today.
Find out more about UK passport renewal overseas here.
Find out more about renewing a British Passport in Australia, here.
Renew your British Passport from the USA.
Topic: Passport Update
