Annexure J for Passport: Complete 2025 Guide & Format

A joint declaration of a married couple is a declaration made by one spouse for the other, which, instead of a marriage certificate, is used to add a spouse's name, Annexure J for a passport. The affidavit presented by the Ministry of External Affairs is a self-declared affidavit. It has made the passport application process easier for couples who do not have a registered marriage certificate. The form can be used in Annexure J for a passport filled sample to apply for a passport; it is accepted under Annexure J for a Tatkal passport to verify marital status. 

What is Annexure J for Passport?

An annexure J for passport is an official, jointly signed declaration form used by a married couple to include the name of a spouse in the Indian passport in the absence of a marriage certificate. The Memorandum of Marriage, initially issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is a recognised document to ease the process and be issued as a valid proof of marriage for passport purposes.

Annexure J v Certificate of Marriage

The charts below compare the use of Annexure J with a traditional marriage certificate when applying for a passport. 

 Also Read: Annexure H for Passport: Experts' Latest Guide & Sample

Why Was Annexure J for Passport Introduced in 2025?

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had introduced Annexure J for passports to ease the procedure of obtaining passports for married couples who do not possess a certificate of a registered marriage. The introduction of this joint declaration eases the process and makes it more accessible and citizen-friendly. 

Some of the primary reasons why it was introduced are as follows: 

• To Solve Nonuniform Marriage Registration: Marriage Registration in different states of India is different in many aspects. Couples with traditional or community ceremonies did not have an officially recognised marriage document, and this, in the past, hindered their ability to apply for a passport.

• To Reduce Application Rejections: A significant reason for the delay or rejection of passport applications was the inability to provide a marriage certificate as proof of marriage. Annexure J gives an appropriate alternative to minimise these rejections.

• To Streamline the Passport Process: As part of an overall plan to improve the efficiency of services offered by the Passport Department, the MEA introduced this self-declaration to remove a common bureaucratic hurdle.

• To Support NRI and Expat Communities: Indian expatriates, mainly in regions such as the UAE, face difficulties in registering their marriages that are conducted overseas or in India. Annexure J, which provides them with a practical solution to update their passports

Who Needs to Submit Annexure J for Passport in 2025?

Annexure J for passport is required for married Indian citizens applying to add their spouse's name to their passport, but they do not have a registered marriage certificate. Annexe J for passport filled sample can be a good guide to properly complete the form, which, upon submission, is verified under annexure J for a passport. Annexure J Scenarios for Applicant

Below is a table of who has to submit Annexure J and in what circumstances: 

Annexure J for NRIs and Overseas Indians

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), separate procedures are available at Indian embassies or consulates for submitting Annexure J  renewal.. The following are the highlights regarding Annexure J for NRIs and Overseas Indians: 

• NRIs have to submit Annexure J to Indian consulates or embassies, where both spouses must be present in person before the consul for signature verification.

• After verification, the passport application, along with Annexure J, is submitted by the BLS International service centres for further processing.

• Annexure J is a good substitute for a joint declaration for a certificate of marriage registration and is particularly important for couples without a registered marriage.

• The essential documents required are a joint photo, complete names, addresses, Aadhaar or voter ID numbers, and signatures of both spouses and others.

• Processing timelines abroad vary by country but usually take a few weeks; some countries, such as the UAE, USA, and UK, have simplified procedures.

• NRIs should have other forms of identification with them and follow the instructions of local consulates to avoid delays in reissuing passports or adding spouse names. 

Also Read: Why Was Annexure J for Passport Introduced?

How to Download Annexure J for Passport?

You can download Annexure J for Passport form directly from the official website of Passport India, without any charges. The form is present in the form of a PDF file, which you may print and fill out by hand. It is essential to use the official source in order to make sure that you have the most up-to-date and valid one, as outdated forms can cause your application to be rejected. Below are the procedures for downloading the Annexure J:

• Official Source Only: Always download the form from the official Passport Seva website (passportindia.gov.in) to avoid counterfeit or obsolete forms. Unofficial sites may serve incorrect forms.

• Visit the Forms and Affidavits Section: On the Passport India homepage, look for the section 'Forms and Affidavits' or 'Annexures'. This section covers all of the supplementary documents, which are required for different passport services.

• Go to Annexure J: From the list of annexures, find the link to "Joint Declaration instead of Marriage Certificate (Annexure 'J')".

• Download the PDF: Use the link to open or download a PDF file (Annexure J) directly to your device. It is a regular PDF file (non-editable).

• Consult Embassies' Websites (for NRIs): For NRI individuals, an Annexure J form may also be available on the contact website of the Indian Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate.

• No Offline Availability: The form is processed normally and is not provided in hard copy at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). You are supposed to download the completed form and bring it to your appointment. 

What are the Documents Required with Annexure J for Passport in 2025?

When filing for a passport, you need to include several supporting documents for both spouses, which makes the application process tedious. The primary focus of these documents is to verify the couple's identities and ordinary residence. An annexure J for the passport-filled sample can help you know where to mention this information in the document. 

Checklist of Documents to Submit in Annexure J 

 Also Read: Latest Documents Required for Indian Passport Application

Annexure J for Passport Filled Sample: Step-by-Step Guide 2025

To complete Annexure J of the passport form, you must provide the full names of both spouses, their Aadhaar numbers, their current residential address, and their passport numbers (if any). This can be avoided by using an annexure J for passport filled sample of an indexed reference archived as an annexe.  

1. Individual Instruction for Filling Needs

• Take the following steps when filling out each section of the Annexure J form:

• Applicant and Spouse Information

• In the first part, type out the complete name of the husband and the wife.

• Provide the complete and up-to-date residential address of the place where both spouses live. This address should preferably match the address on supporting documents, such as the Aadhaar card. 

2. Declaration Statement 

• The form must have a statement about your marital status. It does not need to be written by you; it is already printed.

• You will also confirm that you are married to the person in question and have lived together as a married couple. 

3. Identification Details 

• Both husband and wife have Aadhaar numbers.

• Enter the passport number of either spouse if they have one. If not, leave this blank.

• Optionally, Voter ID card numbers can also be given. 

4. Joint Photograph 

The designated box on the form needs to include a recent colour photo of the couple, taken together.

Both marriages have to sign over the photograph (self-attestation.) Half of the signature goes down on the picture, and the other half goes down on the paper. 

5. Signatures, Date, and Place 

• Both parties, the husband and wife, must sign the form in the respective areas signed by them.

• In the upper left corner of the page, include the date and place (city) that you are signing the declaration. 

Frequent Filling Errors to be Avoided

• Using the Pen or Ink of your Choice: Write the entire form using the same colour black or blue ballpoint pen.

• Incorrect signatures: Signatures must match those on your other official documents, such as your Aadhaar card or current passport.

• Old photograph: You should use a recent picture, rather than an old photograph.

• Self-attesting the photo: The joint photograph must be signed by both spouses.

How to Fill the Declaration Section of Annexure J?

The declaration in Annexure J for a passport is a pre-formatted statement that is signed by the person and their spouse. This part is the legal essence of the form and where you make your combined declaration to the authority issuing the passport on your marital status. The process remains the same when an annexure J for a passport filled sample of a typical application, or when this is needed for a Tatkal passport. 

The declaration section is divided into the following sections: 

• What You Are Affirming: Their testimony is that both are husband and wife and are living together at the residential provided above. The petition to declare the spouse's name is a formal request from the passport-issuing authority.

• Liability Clause: The declaration contains a clause that states that the applicants shall bear all legal disputes or litigation that may arise in future with regard to the marriage. This relieves the passport authority of any liability.

• Solemn Affirmation: The signing of this document is a "solemn affirmation," a formal pledge to tell the truth. It is equal to an oath in the eyes of the law.

• Signature Placement: It would require the signatures of the husband and wife, and you would have to write the signatures on the respective spaces. Your signatures must match those on your official identification documents, e.g., your Aadhaar card or existing passport.

• No Witness Required: Unlike some of the affidavits, Annexure J is a self-declaration and does not usually require the witness to sign it.

• Date and Place: Complete the date (in the format DD/MM/YYYY) and place (city/town where you are signing the form) where you are signing the form. This is very important to defining the document's timeline.

• Review Before Signing: Before signing, examine all the information included in the form - names, addresses, ID numbers, etc - to make sure there is no mistake.

Photo Requirements for Annexure J

The joint photograph submitted along with Annexure J for a passport must comply with specific conditions to be accepted during verification. This photo is visual proof of the couple's joint declaration. It is essential to follow the mentioned guidelines for a smooth process. 

These are the photo specifications in more detail: 

• Type and Size: The photograph should be a recent, colour, passport-size photo, usually 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm (35mm x 45mm).

• Joint Photograph: This must be one single photograph, with both the husband and wife clearly visible in the picture.

• Background: The photo's background should be a plain white/light colour to ensure the photo is clear.

• Recency: The photograph must be up to date, mainly within the last six months.

• Quality: The photo should be of good quality - the faces should be clear. Both of these faces should be looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

• Self-Attestation: This is a mandatory step. Both spouses have to sign across the photograph. The signature should begin on the form paper and go over the picture.

How to Submit Annexure J for Passport Verification in 2025?

To submit annexure J for passport verification, you have to hand it in yourself at your booked appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). The annexure J for the verification of passport is done by the passport officials at the PSK. The following are the steps to the submission process: 

• Book an Appointment: This means first filling out your online passport application form available on the Passport India website and scheduling an appointment at your nearest PSK or POPS.

• Compile Your Documents: Collect the completed Annexure J form, the application receipt, and all original supporting documents for both spouses (Aadhaar cards, existing passports, address proof, etc.).

• Visit the PSK: On your appointment day, you should see the designated PSK. Both spouses should be present, especially at the request of the passport office.

• Document Verification: At Counter A, an official will check all your documents, including Annexure J and scan them into the system. They will also take your picture and your biometric data (face, fingers, and ear).

• Review by the Granting Officer 1: A Granting Officer will go through your application and documents one more time at Counter C. They will be making the final decision on your application.

• NRI Submission Process: For NRIs, Annexure J must be signed in front of a consular officer at an Indian embassy or consulate. The attested form is then submitted together with the passport application via an authorised service centre such as VFS Global or BLS International.

• Application Status: You will get an acknowledgement receipt, which will show the status of your application. You can use the file number on this receipt to check the status of your application online. 

Also Read: Affidavit for Passport Police Verification: Latest Guide

Annexure J for Tatkal Passport: What's Different? Experts Insights 2025

For an annexure j for Tatkal passport application, the requirements for Annexure J itself are identical to a regular application; it serves as a substitute for a marriage certificate. However, the overall Tatkal process differs in key ways. You can use an annexure J for a passport filled sample for guidance in both cases, but the urgency and fee structure for Tatkal set it apart. The main distinction lies in the processing speed and, in some cases, the police verification timeline.

Key differences when using Annexure J for a Tatkal application:

• Identical Form: The format and content of the Annexure J for passport form remain precisely the same for both Tatkal and normal applications.

• Processing Timeline: Tatkal applications are processed much faster—typically within 1-3 working days—excluding the time for police verification.

• Higher Fees: The Tatkal passport fee is significantly higher than the standard application fee to cover the expedited service.

• Police Verification: While Annexure J is accepted, police verification for Tatkal applications may occur after the passport is issued, unlike the pre-verification for typical applications.

• Proof of Urgency: While not always mandatory, you may be asked to provide a reason or evidence of the urgent need for the passport.

• No Annexure F needed for Verification: The Tatkal scheme no longer requires a Verification Certificate (previously Annexure F) from a Gazetted Officer, simplifying the process.

What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Annexure J for Passport in 2025?

The most common mistakes when filing an Annexure J include mismatched details, poor quality submissions, and incomplete information, which can lead to application rejection. Using a correct annexure J for passport filled sample and double-checking all entries can prevent these errors. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Address Mismatch: The residential address on Annexure J must match the address proof (like Aadhaar) submitted with the application. Any discrepancy can cause delays.

• Incorrect or Missing Signatures: Both spouses must sign the form and self-attest the joint photograph. The signature must match the one on other official documents.

• Poor Photo Quality: Submitting an old, unclear, or incorrectly attested joint photograph is a frequent reason for rejection.

• Spelling Errors: Ensure the names of both spouses are spelt correctly and match the names on their other identity documents.

• Incomplete Details: Failing to provide Aadhaar numbers, passport numbers (if applicable), or the date and place of signing can render the form invalid.

• Using Outdated Forms: Always download the latest version of Annexure J from the official Passport India website.

• Writing Outside Designated Boxes: All information should be neatly written within the provided spaces or boxes on the form. 

Also Read: Indian Passport Photo Requirements: Latest Expert Guide

What if My Annexure J Gets Rejected? Experts Tips & Insights 2025

If your annexure J f is rejected, you will receive a notification from the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) detailing the reasons, such as a signature mismatch or an incorrect address.. The resubmission process is straightforward and aims to get your application back on track for Annexure J for passport verification, including for Tatkal passport applications.

Here's what to do if your Annexure J is rejected:

• Identify the Reason: The PSK official will provide an acknowledgement slip or update your online file status with the specific reason for rejection (e.g., "Address Mismatch," "Signature Differs").

• Correct the Error: Download a fresh Annexure J form from the official website and fill it out again, ensuring the previous error is corrected.

• Book a New Appointment: You will likely need to book a new appointment at the PSK to resubmit your corrected documents. In some cases, a walk-in visit may be permitted for minor corrections.

• Resubmit the Documents: Present the new, correctly filled Annexure J, along with all other required supporting documents at your appointment.

• No Additional Fees for Resubmission: Generally, there is no extra fee for resubmitting corrected documents within a specified timeframe.

• Seek Help at PSK: If you are unsure about the rejection reason, you can visit the PSK and speak with a helpdesk officer or the Assistant Passport Officer for clarification.

Annexure J vs. Marriage Certificate: Which is Better in 2025?

While Annexure J for a passport is an adequate substitute, a registered marriage certificate is always the superior document for proving marital status. A marriage certificate holds greater legal weight and is universally accepted for all official purposes, including international visa applications and immigration. This table compares the two documents.

 Also Read: Green Card Marriages: Navigating Trump's Policy Changes

How Long Does it Take to Process Annexure J in 2025?

Submitting an annexure J for passport does not add extra time to the standard passport application timeline. The processing time depends entirely on whether you choose a standard or Tatkal application. Here are the typical processing times:

• Normal Application: For a normal application, the passport is usually dispatched within 3 working days of receiving a "Recommendatory" Police Verification Report (PVR). The entire process, including police verification, can take from 10 to 30 days.

• Tatkal Application: If applying under the Tatkal scheme, the passport is expected to be dispatched on the third working day after the application is submitted, without waiting for the PVR.

• Police Verification Impact: Delays often occur due to pending police verification. If the PVR is unclear or delayed, processing can take 30 days or more.

• Complex Cases: For complex situations such as a significant name change or questionable documentation, processing time can take approximately 30 days, even with all documents in order.

• NRI Applications: For NRIs, processing times can be longer —often 8 weeks or more —because they involve international shipping and verification through consulates.

• Application Tracking: You can track your application status online using the file number provided on your acknowledgement receipt to see which stage it is in.

Can I Add my Wife's Name to my Passport Without a Marriage Certificate in 2025?

 Yes, you can absolutely add your wife's name to your passport without a marriage certificate. The Ministry of External Affairs has introduced Annexure J for passports as a solution. This form is a joint self-declaration signed by both spouses, which serves as a valid substitute for a marriage certificate in passport applications. This form is accepted by all Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) for both normal and Tatkal passport applications.

Here's how the process works:

• Use Annexure J: Download and fill out the Annexure J form, which is a joint affidavit confirming your marriage.

• Attach a Joint Photo: Affix a joint photograph of you and your spouse to the form and have both spouses sign across it.

• Submit with Application: Submit the completed Annexure J along with your passport reissue application and other standard documents like Aadhaar cards and existing passports.

• No Extra Proof Needed: If all details in Annexure J and your supporting documents match, the PSK officer will accept Annexure J for passport verification without requiring a marriage certificate.

• Same Process for Husband's Name: This process works both ways; a wife can also add her husband's name to her passport using the same Annexure J form. 

Also Read: How to Add Spouse Name in Passport? Complete Guide

Annexure J for Passport: State-Wise Processing Centres in India

You can submit Annexure J at any of the 93 Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and 424 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) operating across India. These centres are spread across all states and union territories, ensuring nationwide accessibility for applicants

• Nationwide Network: PSKs and POPSKs are available in major cities and district headquarters across all states, from Jammu & Kashmir to Kerala, Gujarat, and Assam.

• Finding Your Centre: You can see the nearest PSK or POPSK and check its RPO jurisdiction using Passport India's locator tool.

• Major State Centres: States with high application volumes, like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, have multiple PSKs and RPOs. For example, Maharashtra has RPOs in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Thane.

• POPSK for Rural Access: POPSKs have been established to extend passport services to rural and remote areas, making it easier for citizens to apply without travelling to a major city.

• Standardised Process: The submission process for Annexure J is the same at all centres. You book an appointment online and visit the centre with your documents.

• RPO Jurisdiction: While you submit documents at a PSK, the final decision and printing are handled by the parent RPO. For instance, applications from all PSKs in Karnataka are processed by the RPO in Bangalore.

Annexure J for OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) Applications in 2025

While Annexure J is primarily for Indian passports, it can sometimes be used as a supplementary document in OCI applications to support a claim of marriage, especially if a registered marriage certificate is unavailable..Key points for using Annexure J in OCI applications:

• Not a Standalone Document: Unlike passport applications, Annexure J is not a direct substitute for a marriage certificate in OCI cases. It can only be an additional supporting document.

• Additional Proof Required: OCI applicants typically need to provide an apostilled/attested marriage certificate. If unavailable, they may need further evidence, such as joint bank accounts, property deeds, or affidavits from senior family members.

• Embassy/Consulate Discretion: The acceptance of Annexure J depends entirely on the discretion of the Indian embassy or consulate processing the OCI application.

• Spouse of Foreign Origin: For a foreign spouse applying for OCI, the marriage must be registered and have subsisted for at least two years. Annexure J cannot replace this legal requirement.

• Consult Local Mission: Always check the specific documentation checklist on the website of the Indian embassy, consulate, or the VFS/BLS centre in your country of residence before applying.

• Different from Passport Process: OCI verification is more stringent than passport verification. An annexure J for passport verification for a passport is an internal Indian process, whereas OCI verification involves international standards. 

Also Read: Opportunity to Work Overseas: Guide to International Careers

Digital vs. Physical Submission of Annexure J for Passport in 2025

Annexure J must be submitted in hard copy at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), POPSK, or the respective Indian consulate for NRIs. While the application process begins online, Annexure J requires original signatures and a physically affixed photograph, making digital submission impossible. 

• Physical Submission is Mandatory: Annexure J must be submitted in person as a printed document during your passport appointment.

• Original Signatures Required: The form's legal validity comes from the original signatures of both spouses, which cannot be replicated digitally in this context.

• Joint Photograph: A physical joint photograph of the couple must be pasted onto the form and self-attested by both spouses signing across it.

• Digital Filling Option: You can download the PDF form and fill in the details using a computer before printing. However, it cannot be uploaded or submitted online.

• No Digital Upload Portal: The Passport Seva portal does not have an option to upload Annexure J. It is treated as a supporting document that the Passport Officer must verify in person.

• Verification at PSK: The officer at the PSK verifies the physical form, the signatures, and the photograph against your other original documents.

What are the Costs and Fees Associated with Annexure J in Passport 2025?

Downloading and using the annexure J form is completely free. There are no additional charges for submitting this declaration.. Here is a breakdown of the applicable passport fees as of 2025

 Also Read: 60 Pages Passport Cost India: Normal vs Tatkal Fees

What are the Legal Validity and Implications of Annexure J in Passport 2025?

The annexure J  carries full legal validity for passport application purposes under the amended Passport Rules, 1980. However, it is a self-declaration, and providing false information has serious legal consequences. 

• Legal Standing: Annexure J is a legally recognised document for the limited purpose of proving marriage for Indian passport applications, as per the rules simplified by the Ministry of External Affairs.

• Penalties for False Information: Knowingly providing false information in Annexure J is an offence under Section 12 of the Passports Act, 1967. Penalties can include imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.

• Passport Revocation: A passport obtained by submitting false information through Annexure J can be impounded or revoked by the Passport Authority.

• Declaration of Liability: By signing the form, both spouses accept full responsibility for the authenticity of their declaration and are liable for any legal challenges to their marital status that may arise later.

• Limited Scope: Its legal validity does not extend to other official matters. It cannot be used as a substitute for a marriage certificate for foreign visa applications, court proceedings, or inheritance claims.

• Not a Legal Marriage Registration: Annexure J is a procedural document for passport services and does not equate to legally registering a marriage under Indian law.

What are the Annexure J Success Stories and User Experiences in 2025?

Since its implementation, Annexure J has successfully streamlined the passport application process for thousands of married couples. User feedback indicates a high approval rate and a significant reduction in the delays that were common before this rule change.

• Reduced Rejection Rates: The introduction of Annexure J has dramatically reduced the number of application rejections previously caused by the absence of a marriage certificate.

• Simplified, Faster Processing: Applicants widely report that adding a spouse's name is now much simpler and faster, removing a major bureaucratic obstacle.

• Significant Relief for NRIs: Indian expatriates have been the primary beneficiaries, as they can now update their passports at local consulates without needing to travel to India to register their marriage.

• Empowerment for Traditional Marriages: Couples married through religious or customary ceremonies without formal registration have found this provision particularly helpful.

• Positive User Testimonials: Online forums and social media are filled with positive experiences from users who successfully added their spouse's name using only Annexure J and other basic documents.

• Efficient Tatkal Applications: Its acceptance for Tatkal passport applications has been praised by those with urgent travel needs, enabling quick, hassle-free updates.

• Increased Accessibility: The reform has been hailed as a citizen-friendly move that has made passport services more accessible and less cumbersome for the general public. 

Also Read: How to Change Passport Appointment Date? Experts Guide

Latest Updates and Changes to Annexure J (2025)

The primary update for 2025 is the formal introduction and nationwide implementation of Annexure J for passport applications by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). 

• Standardisation Across Missions: As of 2025, all Indian embassies and consulates abroad have standardised the requirement for both spouses to be physically present to sign the Annexure J before a consular officer.

• Alignment of Photo Specs: The joint photograph specifications for Annexure J have been aligned with international passport photo standards, emphasising a plain white background and a recent image.

• No Digital Submission: MEA has clarified that, despite other digital initiatives, Annexure J remains a physical document that cannot be submitted online due to the need for original signatures and photo attestation.

• POPSK Integration: The process has been fully integrated into the Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) network, extending the facility to rural and remote applicants.

• Clarity on Tatkal: The guidelines clarify that Annexure J is entirely acceptable for Tatkal passport applications, without requiring any additional verification certificates, such as the erstwhile Annexure F.

• Future Digitisation: While not yet implemented, the MEA is exploring future digital solutions, such as Aadhaar-based e-signatures, which could potentially digitise the Annexure J process in the coming years.

Conclusion: Simplifying Your Passport Journey with Annexure J

Annexure J for passport applications has revolutionised the marriage documentation process for Indian passport applicants in 2025. This simple joint declaration eliminates the need for a registered marriage certificate, making passport applications more accessible for millions of couples. The form is accepted for both normal and Annexure J for Tatkal passport applications, providing a streamlined, hassle-free solution for all.

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