Updating Your Passport
There are many reasons you might need to change the name on your passport. Whether you’ve recently got married, divorced, changed your gender, or simply chosen a new name, Change My Name is here to guide you through the process.
Updating your passport may seem complicated at first, but with the right documents and support, it’s straightforward. This guide will explain everything you need to know and how we can help you do it faster.
Why Change Your Name on Your Passport?
The most common reasons people change the name on their British passport include:
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Divorce or dissolution
- Gender reassignment
- Personal preference
Regardless of the reason, the process usually involves applying for a brand-new passport; your existing one won’t be amended.
How to Apply for a New Passport with Your New Name
To update your name, you’ll need to apply for a new passport through the HM Passport Office. This will be valid for 10 years, but any remaining time on your current passport won’t be carried over.
Choose How You Apply:
- Online application: The quickest and cheapest method, costing £75.00
- Check and Send (Digital): Available at participating Post Office branches for an extra £16.00
Need help?
HM Passport Office runs a dedicated advice line to assist with applications and required documents.
Contact HM Passport Office
Phone number: 0300 222 0000
From outside the UK: +44 (0) 300 222 0000
By textphone: 18001 0300 222 0222
Operating hours:
Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 8 PM
Weekends and public holidays: 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Postal address:
Her Majesty’s Passport Office
PO Box 767
Southport
PR8 9PW
What Documents Will You Need?
To change your name on your passport, you’ll usually need to send:
- Your current passport
- Two passport-sized photos
- A valid document that proves your name change, such as:
- Deed Poll
- Marriage or civil partnership certificate
- Court order confirming the name change
Let’s break that down further:
Changing Your Name with a Deed Poll
A Deed Poll is an official document that proves you’ve changed your name and that you’re no longer using your former name. It is commonly required in the following situations:
- You changed your name by personal choice
- You’re separated but not yet divorced
- You’re applying for your first passport in a name that differs from your birth certificate
- You’re changing a child’s name
You’ll also need to show you’re actively using your new name by providing additional proof such as:
- A bank statement
- Payslip
- Driving licence
- Tax or medical records
- Government-issued letters
Need a Deed Poll? Our secure, easy-to-use application takes minutes. We’ll post your officially recognised Deed Poll straight to your door.
When Do People Update Their Passport?
After Marriage or Civil Partnership
If you’ve recently tied the knot, your marriage or civil partnership certificate is usually enough to update your passport.
You can even apply for your new passport up to three months before the ceremony using a special “passports for newlyweds” form signed by your officiant.
Exceptions:
You may need a Deed Poll if:
- You’ve lost your marriage certificate
- You were married overseas, and the certificate isn’t in English
After Divorce or Dissolution
If your divorce is finalised, you can update your passport without a Deed Poll. Just include:
- A signed statement confirming you’re reverting to your former name
- Your birth certificate
- Your marriage certificate and decree absolute (or final order)
- Supporting evidence that you’re using your old name again, like a bank statement or payslip
You can still use a Deed Poll if you’d prefer a simpler or faster route.
After a Gender Change
If you’ve changed your gender, you can apply for a passport in your new name and gender. Include one of the following:
- A Gender Recognition Certificate
- A new birth or adoption certificate in your acquired gender
- A medical letter stating the change is likely to be permanent
If using a medical letter, you’ll also need:
- Deed Poll or equivalent name change proof
- Evidence of name usage (e.g. payslip, bank letter)
Will My Former Name Be Shown?
In most cases, no. Your old name won’t appear in your new passport. The only exceptions are when the Passport Office considers it necessary for identification purposes, such as maintaining a professional maiden name alongside your married name.
Changing a Child’s Name on a Passport
To update your child’s name, you’ll need:
- A Child Deed Poll
- The child’s current passport
- Proof they’re using the new name (e.g. NHS or school record)
- Consent from all individuals with parental responsibility
- Two recent passport photos (for paper applications)
