Marriage often brings with it significant life changes, including a change in surname for many women. When traveling internationally, your passport must reflect your correct legal name, and if your surname has changed after marriage, you will need to update your passport accordingly. In this detailed guide, we explain everything about passport renewal after marriage, the process of changing your surname, required documents, and important tips to avoid delays.

Do You Need to Change Your Surname in Passport After Marriage?

Changing your surname after marriage is a personal choice, not a legal obligation. Some women prefer to retain their maiden name, while others adopt their spouse’s surname. However, if you decide to use your new surname in official documents, your passport must be updated to match it.

If your flight tickets, visa, or international bookings are in your new surname but your passport shows your maiden name, you may face travel complications. Therefore, ensuring uniformity across all documents is important.

Difference Between Passport Renewal and Reissue After Marriage

Many applicants confuse renewal with reissue. Here’s the difference:

  • Passport Renewal – This applies when the validity of your passport has expired or is about to expire, and you want to extend it with the same details.
  • Passport Reissue – This applies when there are changes in details such as name, surname, address, date of birth, or appearance.

➡️ In the case of changing surname after marriage, you must apply for a reissue, not a simple renewal.

Documents Required for Changing Surname After Marriage

To reissue your passport after marriage with an updated surname, the following documents are required:

  1. Current Passport – Original passport with self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages, and ECR/ECNR page.
  2. Marriage Certificate – Issued by a competent authority (Registrar of Marriages).
  3. Joint Affidavit (Annexure D) – Declaration of marriage by both husband and wife.
  4. Address Proof – Aadhaar card, voter ID, utility bill, or rental agreement.
  5. Husband’s Passport Copy (if applicable) – For verification purposes.
  6. Photographs – Recent passport-size photographs (if not captured digitally at PSK).

Step-by-Step Process to Change Surname in Passport After Marriage

1. Register on Passport Seva Portal

2. Fill Out the Application Form

  • Select “Reissue of Passport”.
  • Choose the reason as “Change in Personal Particulars” → “Change of Name/Surname.”
  • Fill in your details carefully, ensuring the surname matches your marriage certificate.

3. Pay the Fees and Schedule Appointment

  • Pay the applicable fee online (varies depending on Normal or Tatkal service).
  • Book an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO).

4. Visit the PSK/RPO

  • Carry all original documents and photocopies.
  • Complete biometric verification, photograph capture, and document submission.

5. Police Verification (If Required)

  • In most cases, police verification is conducted when there is a change in surname.
  • Once cleared, your passport moves to the printing stage.

6. Receive Your Updated Passport

  • Your passport with the updated surname will be dispatched by speed post within:
    • Normal Service: 7–14 working days.
    • Tatkal Service: 1–3 working days (subject to approval).

Can You Travel With Old Passport After Marriage?

Yes, you can continue traveling with your old passport if your surname has not been legally changed in other documents. However, if you have already updated your surname in Aadhaar, PAN, or marriage certificate, it is highly recommended to update your passport as well to avoid mismatches during visa applications or immigration checks.

Tips for Smooth Surname Change in Passport

  • Ensure your marriage certificate is government-issued and not just a ceremonial proof.
  • If applying under Tatkal, keep an additional affidavit ready to speed up the process.
  • Book tickets only after receiving your updated passport to avoid mismatched details.
  • Keep photocopies of your old passport for future references (visa history, travel records).

Conclusion

Changing your surname in your passport after marriage requires a reissue of passport, not just a renewal. By preparing the correct documents—especially the marriage certificate and affidavit—you can complete the process smoothly. Opting for Tatkal services ensures faster processing if you have urgent international travel.

At Online Passport Agents, we help you with surname changes, reissue applications, Tatkal processing, and all passport-related services with expert guidance and fast approvals. As a government-approved, reliable, and professional agency, we make sure your passport process is seamless.