Passport Spouse Name Update Made Easy: Adding a spouse’s name to a passport is now much easier following a significant decision by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Earlier, applicants faced several difficulties because a registered marriage certificate was mandatory. However, the government has now removed this condition, making the Passport Spouse Name Update process simpler and more accessible.
Under the new rules, a marriage registration certificate is no longer compulsory to add a husband’s or wife’s name to the passport. This change brings huge relief, especially for couples who got married through traditional ceremonies but did not register their marriage officially.
What Has Changed in Passport Rules?
Previously, anyone who wanted to add their spouse’s name to their passport had to submit a registered marriage certificate. If the marriage was not legally registered, the application often got delayed or rejected.
The Ministry of External Affairs has introduced a new provision in Annexure J that allows applicants to self-declare their marriage. A joint photograph of the couple, with both signatures, is sufficient proof of marriage. This document is treated as a self-attested marriage declaration.
How Annexure J Works?
Annexure J is a newly introduced option by the government for Spouse Name Updates in Passport. In this form, the applicant has to attach a joint photograph with their spouse. The picture must clearly show both partners and include the signatures of both husband and wife.
Along with signatures, include the date, place, and both spouses’ names. Thi. Eliminates the need for a formal marriage registration certificate.
Documents Required for Adding Spouse Name in Passport
To complete the process smoothly, applicants need to provide basic identity documents. These include the full names of both husband and wife, Aadhaar card details, voter ID, and passport number (if already issued). These documents help in identity verification during the application process.
How to Apply for Passport Spouse Name Update?
To begin the process, visit the official Passport Seva website and log in using your credentials. After logging in, select the option to apply for a new passport or to reissue/change to an existing passport.
Next, download Annexure J from the website and fill it carefully. Upload the joint photograph of you and your spouse, and ensure that both signatures are clearly visible. Attach Annexure J along with the other required documents and applying.
Once submitted, the application will be processed in accordance with standard passport verification procedures.
Who Will Benefit the Most from This Rule?
This new rule will benefit many couples, especially in North Indian states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. In many regions, marriages are traditionally performed but not formally registered. For such couples, the earlier requirement of a marriage certificate created unnecessary hurdles.
With the removal of this condition, the Passport Spouse Name Update process has become faster and more practical. This is particularly helpful during job applications, visa processing, official transfers, and international travel planning.
Overall, this decision by the Ministry of External Affairs is a big step toward simplifying documentation and making passport services more citizen-friendly.