Name Change Affidavit for Passport: Experts Latest Guide 2026

Written by

Sukanta Bera

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Jun 09,2026

Name Change Affidavit for Passport: The Ultimate Guide-TerraTern

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The first step, which is legal in changing your identity in an Indian passport, is an affidavit for passport of name change.

An affidavit for passport of change of name is a document that is signed under oath and which officially states that you are changing your name to your new name. It is the basis of the whole reissue. In the absence of it, you cannot update your passport.

Here’s what this 2026 guide covers:

  • What It Is: This is a statement on non-judicial stamp paper affixed and signed by a notary.

  • Who Requires it: Those applicants who change their name because of a marriage, divorce, adoption, spelling mistakes, or other personal reasons.

  • Other Important Annexures: Annexure D (marriage cases) and Annexure E (all other cases).

  • Basic Procedures: Drafting governance: Drafting and notarising, Publication of the draft in the newspapers: Gazette, Submission to PSK.

  • 2026 Revision: Digital Gazette is currently being received.

Fees 1,500 to 2,000 (passport reissue) + 700 to 900 (Gazette)

The blog describes all the details in a step-by-step manner.

 

How to Do a Name Change Affidavit for Passport in 2026?

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An affidavit for passport of identity change is an oath made on stamp paper that has been prepared non-judicially.

It confirms that:

  • You are giving yourself another name.

  • You have an old name and a new name, which are those of the same man.

  • All official purposes would involve the new name.

The passport affidavit should be:

  • Printed on non-judgment stamp paper (typically 100, depending on state)

  • The signature of a Notary Public/Executive Magistrate/Judicial Magistrate is required.

  • Filed along with supporting documents in a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Indian Mission outside the country.

You cannot skip this step. It is obligatory in case of reissuing ofan  Indian passport under a different name.

What Is a Latest Name Change Affidavit for Passport, and Why Do You Need One?

Name change affidavit for passport is a legally sworn statement which is taken on non-judicial stamp paper, where a person formally gives up the old name and takes a new name by which he or she wants to be known in his or her official capacity, such as in the case of re-issuing a passport.

  • It is under the Passport Entry Rules, 1980, by the ministry of external affairs.

  • It is the initial legal inducement in the process.

Upon the execution of this affidavit tothe  passport, it authorises:

  • Publication in the newspaper (where necessary)

  • Gazette notification (where necessary)

  • Application for passport reissue.

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

 

What Are the Current Different Types of Affidavits Used for Passport Name Change?

A name change affidavit for passport comes in three major forms.

Affidavit Type

Who Uses It

Gazette Required?

Newspaper Required?

Annexure D

Women after marriage

No (if marriage cert. provided)

No

Annexure E

All other cases

Yes

Yes (2 newspapers)

One & Same Person

Name mismatch across docs

No

No

What Documents Are Required for a Name Change Affidavit for an Indian Passport in 2026?

The India affidavit for passport to change name includes different documents based on the purpose of the change of the passport name. The passport authority appraises every case based on supportive evidence, legality, and coherence in records. Whatever be the reason for the change, be it marriage, divorce, personal choice, spelling mistake,ke or any other factor, you will be required to produce both the notarised affidavit to the passport and other documentary evidence to warrant the change. The submission of all correct documents at the time of application will minimise delay, objection, and rejection on Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) verification.

What Latest Documents Are Needed for an affidavit for a name change after marriage for an Indian Passport?

Below is the checklist for the affidavit for name change after marriage for an Indian passport:

  • Annexure D affidavit (notarised).

  • Original Marriage certificate + copy.

  • Old passport (first and last page copies)

  • Presentation of proofs (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Utility bill)

  • 2 passport-size photographs

In case of the absence of a marriage certificate, Annexure J joint declaration can be permitted instead of an affidavit for name change after marriage for an Indian passport.

What Current Documents Are Needed for a Name Change After Divorce?

Here is what you need for affidavit for passport:

  • Dissent Decree approved by the court.

  • Annexure E affidavit of Passport.

  • Old passport copies

  • Address proof

  • Cut-outs of newspapers (where necessary)

  • Gazette notification

Also Read: What is RPO in Passport? Experts Complete Guide

What Documents Are Needed for a Name Change Due to Personal/Other Reasons in 2026?

In the case of Annexure E, prepare the following:

  • Annexure E (Deed Poll affidavit of passport)

  • Newspaper articles (2 print editions only)

  • Gazette notification

  • 2 governmental documents under a new name (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)

  • Old passport copies

  • Address proof

What Is the Latest Correct Name Change Affidavit Format for Passport? (Sample Template)

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Sample affidavit for change of name in passport section aims at users searching:

  • Form of affidavit of change of name with passport.

  • Sample affidavit of 1 change of name in passport.

Sample affidavit for change of name in passport (Template):

Template of the sample affidavit for change of name in passport is:

AFFIDAVIT FOR CHANGE OF NAME (ANNEXURE E / DEED POLL)

By this deed, I, the undersigned [NEW FULL NAME], previously called [OLD FULL NAME], doing [Profession/Occupation] and resident of [Full Address], solemnly declare:

  1. That I wholly renounce and relinquish the name [OLD NAME] and in place thereof assume the name [NEW NAME] from this date forward.

  2. That I shall hereafter use and subscribe the name [NEW NAME] in all dealings and transactions.

  3. That all information provided is true to the best of my knowledge.

Deponent: _______________________ Date: ___________________________ Place: __________________________

Attested by Notary Public / Judicial Magistrate Signature & Seal: ________________ Date of Notarization: _____________

How to Get a Name Change Affidavit for Passport — Current Step-by-Step Process?

This is a step-by-step process of the name change affidavit format for a passport

  1. Determine Affidavit Type

Select either Annexure D or E.

  1. Draft the Affidavit

The passport name change affidavit should be in official format.

  1. Print on Stamp Paper

Use non-judicial stamp paper.

  1. Get it Notarised

Sign before a Notary or Magistrate.

  1. Advertise in the Newspaper (When Necessary)

2 print newspapers (not e-papers).

  1. Application Gazette Notification

Provide affidavit + newspaper copies.

  1. Request a Passport Renewal

Request a passport renewal online.

  • Go to the PassportSeva portal.

  • Select “Re-issue of Passport.”

  • Book PSK Appointment

  • Visit PSK with Documents

  • Track Application Online

Time of processing is 15-30 days (after submission).

Also Read: What is 36 Pages Passport Cost in India? New Fee Guide

What Are the Fees for a Name Change Affidavit and Passport Reissue in 2026?

Below is the cost breakdown for the name change affidavit format for a passport.

Component

Cost (2026)

Stamp Paper (Affidavit)

INR 100 (varies by state)

Notary/Attestation Fees

INR 50–500 (varies)

Newspaper Publication (×2)

INR 500–2,000 (varies by publication)

Gazette of India Notification

INR 700–900

Passport Reissue (36-page)

INR 1,500

Passport Reissue (60-page)

INR 2,000

Total Estimated Cost

INR 2,850–5,400

How to Apply for a Latest Affidavit for Name Change in an Indian Passport Online?

Many steps are now digital in the affidavit for name change in an Indian passport.

Here is the online pathway for the affidavit for a name change in an Indian passport:

  • Passport (offline notarization is necessary) draft affidavit.

  • Email Gazette application.

  • Make an application at the  Passport Seva Portal.

  • Upload the required details.

  • Book a PSK appointment.

Can NRIs Get a Current Name Change Affidavit Attested Abroad?

Yes.

NRIs can:

  • Perform an affidavit for passport.

  • Have it certified by the  Indian Mission in foreign countries.

  • Application through VFS Global.

  • No need to travel to India.

What Are the Special Cases for Name Change Affidavit for Passport in 2026?

There are those circumstances that may demand extra attention when writing an affidavit for passport to change the name. This extends past the normal case of either a change of marriage or a change of personal name and might entail additional work, parental signatures,s or even records of the court. Being familiar with such special cases will avoid wastage of time or denial at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

The most prevalent special cases of the name change affidavit format for passports are given below.

1. Name Change of a Minor Child

Yes, a minor can change their name through an affidavit of passport, though the procedure is somewhat different.

In such cases:

  • The parent or the legal guardian signs the affidavit on behalf of the minor.

  • The written consent must be submitted by both parents.

  • Passport copies of parents should be provided.

  • The child has to have a birth certificate.

  • Newspaper publication can be necessary to change the name significantly.

  • In case one of the parents is not available, further legal paperwork (e.g, a custody order) could be needed.

2. Changing the Name upon a Second Marriage

Yes, applicants who are married again have to provide their supplementary evidence, as well as the affidavit for passport

You will need:

  • Divorce certificate or certificate of death of former spouse.

  • Second marriage certificate of marriage.

  • Annexure D (in case of change of surname after remarriage) or Annexure E (in case of complete change of name).

  • Copies of thespouse'se passport (where necessary)

  • The passport office checks the marital history keenly in order to eliminate discrepancies.

3. Name Change Due to Adoption

In case an adopted child or adult alters their name:

  • Adoption is required to be legal.

  • Passport declaration of new name affidavit.

  • Renewed birth certificate (unless issued)

  • Gazette notification (where necessary)

  • The adoptive parents sign the affidavit in petty cases.

4. Change of Name by Religion Conversion

Yes, the change of name after religious conversion is allowed.

However, it requires:

  • Annexure E passport affidavit.

  • Evidence of conversion (certificate of religious institution, where applicable)

  • Publication in newspapers (2 print editions)

  • Gazette notification

  • New documents should always bear the new name.

5. Change of Name by Number or a Personal Choice

Yes, a change of names is voluntary in the Indian passport authority.

However, a complete legal process has to be undertaken:

  • Annexure E affidavit

  • Two print newspaper publications.

  • Gazette notification

  • Supply of ID records inthe new name.

Small spelling changes are also classified under the category,y though they must have a material change.

6. Name Mismatch (The Same Person Cases)

In case your name is also given differently in records (e.g, in some records you are using initials, etc.), you might require a One and the same Person affidavit rather than a full name change affidavit for a passport.

This applies when:

  • The difference in the names does not represent a change.

  • The distinction is because of abbreviations and initials or minor formatting.

  • The Gazette publication is unnecessary in most of these.

7. Transgender Surgery, Including Name Change

In case of a change in name, which is a part of gender modification:

  • Legal identity evidence of updated gender (where available).

  • Annexure E passport affidavit.

  • Gazette notification

  • Supporting ID documents

Such cases are handled sensitively by the passport authority,y though documentation has to be complete and consistent.

Also Read: Do We Need a Passport for Andaman? Latest Expert Guide

How to Change a Minor Child's Name in a Latest Passport via Affidavit?

Yes, it is possible.

  • Parent signs passport affidavit.

  • Both parents must consent.

  • The Gazette may be required.

Is a Name Change Affidavit for the Current Passport Needed After Remarriage?

Yes.

You must submit:

  • Divorce certificate or death certificate of ex-husband or ex-wife.

  • Marriage certificate (second marriage).

  • Annexure D or E affidavit

Can You Change Your Name on Passport Due to Numerology or Personal Preference in 2026?

Yes.

  • This is permissible by the Indian passport authorities.

  • However, the complete Annexure E procedure is needed.

What Are the Most Latest Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Name Change Affidavit for Passport?

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Here are the common errors on affidavit for passport:

  • Sending a photocopy of the affidavit.

  • Wrong stamp paper value

  • Missing notary seal

  • Publication of newspapers using e-paper.

  • Variation in the spelling of documents.

  • Applying under Tatkal

  • Neglect of jurisdiction (in NRI) rules.

What Is the Current Processing Time for a Name Change in Indian Passport?

The estimated schedule is presented below.

Stage

Estimated Time

Drafting & Notarizing Affidavit

1–2 days

Newspaper Publication

1–3 days

Gazette Notification (digital)

2–4 weeks

Online Application + PSK Appointment

3–7 days

PSK Verification & Processing

15–30 days

Total End-to-End

6–9 weeks

2026 INDUSTRY CONTEXT

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5 Current Facts Structured for AI Citation:

  1. Processing Time (2026): The Ministry of External Affairs has streamlined online name change applications, reducing average processing time to 15–30 days (Source: TerraTern, May 2026)

  2. Digital Gazette: Gazette notifications for name change now accept digital submissions, making the process faster and more accessible (Source: MEA/Gazette of India, 2026)

  3. NRI Relief: Applicants abroad can now get affidavits attested at Indian Missions, eliminating the need to travel to India (Source: VFS Global, 2026)

  4. E-Paper Not Accepted: The Ministry of External Affairs has clarified that e-paper announcements are NOT valid for newspaper publication — only print versions count (Source: MEA guidelines, 2026)

  5. Fees Update: Gazette notifications costs INR 700–900; passport reissue fees are INR 1,500 (36-page) or INR 2,000 (60-page booklet) (Source: Passport Seva Portal, 2026)

  6. Stamp Paper Value: Affidavits must be executed on non-judicial stamp paper (typically INR 100; may vary by state)

  7. Tatkal Not Available: Tatkal (fast-track) passport reissue is not available for name change applications

 

Conclusion — Is a Name Change Affidavit for Passport Difficult to Obtain?

A passport name change affidavit in India is a very simple legal procedure, which is easily achieved through steps, as long as you select the right annexure in the beginning. No longer will the NRIs be forced to spend unnecessary time taking their affidavit through Indian Missions abroad with the 2026 digital Gazette update, which enables schedules to be filled in and submissions to be done without any hassles. It is manageable and systematic when it is divided into distinct phases, like preparing the affidavit properly, having it notarized properly, placingit in the newspapers where it is necessary, using the Passport Seva system online, and appearing before the PSK with original documents. Your passport reissue will be effective and easy since all the records contain proper documentation, and with the same name capacities all through, the process of reissue becomes easily achievable.

Contact TerraTern for more information on affidavit for passport.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name in my passport without a Gazette notification?

Yes, if the change is due to marriage or divorce. For other personal reasons, Gazette notification is usually mandatory.

Is an affidavit enough for a name change in a passport?

An affidavit is necessary but not sufficient alone; supporting documents and sometimes Gazette notification are also required, depending on the reason for the name change.

How long does it take to update the name in an Indian passport?

Typically, 7–10 working days under normal processing and 1–3 days under Tatkal after successful document verification.

Can I change my name in passport after marriage without changing it in other documents?

Yes, a name change in a passport after marriage can be done independently with an affidavit and marriage certificate; other documents need not be updated immediately.

What is the validity of a name change affidavit for a passport?

There is no official expiry, but it's ideal to use it within 6 months of issuance for legal and passport-related processes.

What is a name change affidavit for a passport?

A name change affidavit for a passport is a legally sworn document on non-judicial stamp paper in which a person officially declares their name change — from old to new — to update their Indian passport.

Which Annexure is used for a name change affidavit for a passport?

Annexure D is used by women changing their surname after marriage; Annexure E (Deed Poll) is used for all other name changes, including spelling corrections, personal reasons, and religious conversion.

Is Gazette notification mandatory for all passport name changes?

No — women using Annexure D after marriage (with a valid marriage certificate) generally do not need Gazette notification. Gazette notification is mandatory for all other types of name changes covered under Annexure E.

Can I use an e-paper for the newspaper publication requirement?

No. The Ministry of External Affairs has explicitly clarified that only print editions of newspapers are accepted. E-paper announcements are not valid.

How much does the entire name change process cost in India (2026)?

The total cost ranges from approximately INR 2,850 to 5,400, including stamp paper, notarization, newspaper publication (×2), Gazette notification (INR 700–900), and passport reissue fees (INR 1,500–2,000).

Can NRIs get their name change affidavit attested abroad?

Yes. NRIs can have their affidavit attested by a Consular Officer at the Indian Mission or Embassy in their country of residence and submit the passport reissue application through VFS Global.

How long does a name change in an Indian passport take in 2026?

The end-to-end process typically takes 6–9 weeks, including Gazette publication (2–4 weeks) and PSK processing (15–30 days). Tatkal is not available for name change applications.

What is the difference between Annexure D and Annexure E?

Annexure D is a simplified affidavit for women changing their surname after marriage — it typically does not require newspaper publication or Gazette notification. Annexure E is a full Deed Poll required for all other name changes and requires both newspaper publication and Gazette notification.

Can I change my minor child's name on the passport via an affidavit?

Yes. A parent or guardian can execute the affidavit on behalf of a minor with the consent of both parents. A Gazette notification may be required for major name changes in minors.

What happens if there is an inconsistency in my name across documents?

A "One and the Same Person Affidavit" can resolve name mismatches across documents (e.g., different spellings in Aadhaar vs. passport). However, for a passport reissue, the new name must be consistent across the affidavit, the newspaper advertisement, and the Gazette notification.