UK Guide to Passport Name Change

To change your name on your UK passport, you must renew it fully and receive a new 10-year passport with your new name. Since processing times vary, the Passport Office recommends allowing ten weeks for your new passport to arrive. While this aspect pertains to all cases, the process varies based on why you are changing your name. Read on for your guide to changing the name on your UK passport.

A marriage or civil partnership

There are two ways to change your name after a marriage or civil partnership. Your name can be changed before or after your ceremony. Applicants for a new passport after the ceremony need to send a copy of their marriage or civil partnership certificate and supporting documentation in their new name to the Passport Office. 

Send a completed “Passports for newlyweds and civil partners” form to the Passport Office three months before your wedding or civil partnership ceremony to apply for your new passport. The minister/registrar conducting your ceremony must sign this form.

If you choose the latter option, your current passport will be cancelled, and your new one will be post-dated, meaning it won’t be valid until the ceremony. If you plan to travel overseas, such as for a honeymoon, soon after your wedding, remember that many countries won’t issue visas for post-dated passports. We recommend checking with a consulate or embassy in your intended destination to see if they will issue a visa for a post-dated passport. If not, you may want to change your passport after your ceremony and return from your trip.

Divorce or former surname

Divorcees and those returning to prior surnames must submit many documents to substantiate their application. The following must be submitted:

• Your birth certificate.
• A letter from the local council, deed poll, or payslip showing your new name.
• A decree with your old and new names.
• A marriage or civil partnership certificate with both names. The General Register Office makes it easy to get a copy.

A shift in gender

If you’ve changed gender and are applying for a new passport under a new name, you must send one of these documents:

• A Gender Recognition Certificate (see the UK Government website for details)
• A doctor, GP, or medical consultant’s letter confirming your gender transition’s permanence.
• A birth or adoption certificate showing your gender change.
• If you choose a medical practitioner letter, you must provide the following: Name change proof, such as a deed poll. An official document or payslip proving your new name has been used.

Other name changes

It is important to note that there are other reasons for changing your name, from minor first name altercations to wanting a fresh start.

Contact UKDP for Deed Poll services on 0208 0172216.