How Do I Change My Name on My UK Passport? Your Essential Guide to Updating Your Personal Details on Your British Passport.
- Oct 19, 2025
- 20 min read
Updated: Dec 11, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About a British Passport Name Change and How to Change Your Name on Your UK Passport, you can even apply online.
If you need to change your name on your UK Passport, whether due to marriage, civil partnership, divorce, or by deed poll, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the passport application process.
Learn how to change your name on your British passport with HM Passport Office, what document you need, and how to update personal details on your passport quickly and efficiently with or without a deed poll.
To change your name on your UK Passport, you will need a legal document that proves your name has changed, a Deed Poll is one such legal document.
We can issue you with a Deed Poll instantly today or within a couple of days by post, as evidence of your name change and fully accepted by HM Passport Office.
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need to Change the Name on Your British Passport?
There are several reasons why you might need to change name on passport and not just becuase you have an old passport. The most common situations include a name change due to marriage or civil partnership, returning to a former name after divorce, or legally changing your name by deed poll. Whatever your reason, HM Passport Office requires you to apply for a new passport rather than simply amending your old passport.
When you legally change your name, your current name on official documents should match. Your passport name change ensures consistency across all your identification, including your driving licence, bank accounts, and other records. A name mismatch between documents can cause complications when travelling or proving your identity.
Do You Need a New Passport to Change Name on Your Passport?
Yes, if you want to change name on your passport, you must apply for a new passport. The passport office cannot simply amend or update your existing passport with a different name. When you get a new passport, your old passport will be cancelled and returned to you. Any time remaining on your old passport will not be added to your new one—you'll receive a fresh new 10 year passport.
This applies whether you need to change the name on a UK passport due to marriage, divorce, deed poll, or any other reason. The process to get a new passport in your new name is essentially the same as a standard passport renewal, with additional documentation to support a change of name.
When Do You Need a Deed Poll to Change Your Name on a British Passport?
You need a deed poll if your name change is not due to marriage or civil partnership. A deed poll is a legal document that allows you to change your name and proves you have officially changed your legal name. You'll need to change your legal name by deed poll to change your name on a British passport if you want to:
• Change your first name or middle name
• Change to a completely different name unrelated to marriage
• Change to a double-barrelled surname outside of marriage
• Revert to a previous surname after separation (before divorce is finalised)
How to Use a Deed Poll to Change Your Name by Deed Poll
You can change your name by deed poll through various services or create your own.
The deed poll to change your name must be witnessed and signed correctly to be accepted by the passport office. A poll to change your name is a straightforward legal document that declares you are abandoning your old name and adopting your new name for all purposes.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WITNESS REQUIREMENTS
When you use your new name, you'll need to provide documentary evidence of your change alongside your passport application. The passport office requires you to also show proof that you've started using your legal name by deed poll—such as a bank statement or utility bill in your new name.
What If the Name on Your Birth Certificate Is Different?
If you're applying for your first passport and the name on your birth certificate differs from the name you currently use, you'll need a deed poll showing your name changing from your birth name to your current name. This is common for people whose names were changed in childhood but who have no documentation of the change.
The deed poll should show your name on your birth certificate as your 'former name' and your current name as your 'new name'. This provides the passport office with a clear chain of evidence for your name change.
How to Change Name on Your UK Passport After Marriage or Civil Partnership
If your name change is due to marriage or civil partnership, the process is straightforward. Your marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate serves as proof of name change, and you don't need a deed poll. The passport office requires your original marriage or civil partnership certificate as evidence of your name change.
Marriage or Civil Partnership Change: What Documents You Need
To change your name on your UK passport after a marriage or civil partnership change, you can apply online or by post. The good news is that you can apply for your new passport up to three months before your ceremony date, though the passport in your new name won't be valid until your wedding day.
Your marriage or civil partnership certificate must be the original document—certified copies or photocopies will not be accepted by the passport office. Like a marriage certificate, a civil partnership certificate can support a change of name to your partner's surname or allow you to create a double-barrelled surname combining both names.
Get a Passport in Your New Name Before Your Wedding
If you want to honeymoon abroad immediately after your wedding, you can apply for your new passport in advance. Submit your passport application with your marriage certificate up to three months before your ceremony. Your passport in your new name will be issued but won't be valid for travel until the date of your marriage or civil partnership.
Change of Name on Passport: Reverting to Your Former Name After Divorce
If you wish to revert to your former name after marriage or divorce, you can use your decree absolute or final order as evidence of your name change. The passport office will issue a new passport in your former name when you provide this document along with a signed statement confirming you wish to use your previous name for all purposes.
Apply for a New Passport in Your Former Name
When you apply for a new passport in your former name, note that your decree absolute may not show your maiden name. In this case, you'll also need to provide your original marriage certificate or your birth certificate showing the name on your birth certificate that you wish to return to.
If you prefer a different name entirely after divorce—not your married name or your birth name—you'll need a deed poll. The passport office requires documentary evidence of your change regardless of which name you choose.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a New Passport in Your New Name
Step 1: Gather Your Documents to Support a Change of Name
Before you apply for your new passport, ensure you have all the necessary documents ready. The passport office requires specific evidence of your name change depending on your circumstances:
• Your current passport (your old passport will be cancelled)
• Original marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or deed poll
• Decree absolute or final order (for divorce-related changes)
• Birth certificate (if reverting to birth name)
• A recent passport photo meeting UK requirements
Step 2: Complete the Passport Application Form
You can apply for a passport online through the GOV.UK website or complete a paper passport application form available from Post Office branches. The online application is generally faster and costs less. When you fill in the form, use the new name you want to appear on your new British passport.
The standard passport application process applies whether you're renewing or applying for a name change. Sign your passport application using the name you are known by—your new name that will appear on your passport.
Step 3: Apply for Your New Passport and Pay the Cost
The cost of a British passport name change is the same as a standard renewal. Currently, an online application costs £94.50, whilst a paper application costs £107. You'll receive a new 10 year passport—any time left on your old passport will not be added to your new one.
You'll need to send your supporting documents to HM Passport Office. If applying online, you'll receive instructions on where to post your documents after completing your application. The passport service recommends using a tracked delivery service for your important documents.
Step 4: Wait for HM Passport Office to Issue Your New Passport
Processing times vary, so check the current waiting times on the GOV.UK website before applying. If you need a new passport urgently, HM Passport Office offers premium and fast-track services at additional cost. Don't book travel until you have your passport in your new name in hand.
What Document Do You Need for a UK Passport Name Change?
The document you need depends on why you're changing your name. Here's a summary of acceptable proof of name change:
For marriage or civil partnership: Original marriage or civil partnership certificate
For divorce: Decree absolute or final order, plus birth certificate or marriage certificate if needed
For deed poll changes: Your original deed poll plus proof of use in your new name (such as a bank statement or utility bill)
For first passport with different name: A deed of change of name showing your name changing from the name on your birth certificate to your current name
The name on your passport matches the name on official documents like your driving licence. HM Passport Office only accepts original documents—photocopies and laminated certificates will not be accepted by the passport office.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Name on Your British Passport?
Many people ask how much it costs to change the name on your British passport. The cost is the same as a standard passport renewal—there's no additional fee for a name change. Here's what you can expect to pay:
Online application: £94.50
Paper application: £107
Post Office Check and Send: Additional £16
1-week Fast Track service: £178
Online Premium service: £222
Apply for a Passport Online vs Paper Passport Application
You can apply for a new passport either online or using a paper form. The online method is recommended as it's faster, cheaper, and easier. When you apply for a passport online, you'll upload a digital photo and receive clear instructions for posting your supporting documents.
If you prefer a paper passport application, collect a form from your local Post Office. Consider using the Check and Send service—for an additional £16, Post Office staff will review your application to help ensure there are no errors that could delay your new passport.
Need a New Passport Urgently? Fast Track Options from the Passport Office
If you need a new passport quickly, HM Passport Office offers expedited services. The Online Premium service costs £222 and can issue a new passport within two days—you'll attend an appointment at a passport office to collect it. The 1-week Fast Track service costs £178 and requires a paper application.
These services are available at passport customer service centres in Belfast, Durham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Newport, and Peterborough. Book your appointment online before travelling to the passport office.
Special Circumstances for Changing Name on a UK Passport
Apply for a New British Passport from Outside the UK
If you're a British citizen living outside the UK, you can still apply for your new passport online. The process is similar, but delivery times may be longer. Ensure you follow the specific guidance for British nationals living abroad on the GOV.UK website.
Your new British passport will be sent to your overseas address. Make sure to allow extra time for international delivery when planning any travel.
What Happens to Visas in Your Old Passport After a Name Change?
When you get a new passport, your old passport will be cancelled. If you have unexpired visas in your old passport, they may become invalid. Contact the embassy or consulate of the country that issued the visa to check whether you need to apply for a new visa.
You can request your cancelled passport be returned to you with the visas intact. Some countries allow you to travel with both your new passport and your old passport containing valid visas—but always confirm this with the relevant embassy before travelling.
Change Name on Passport: Using a Different Name Professionally
If you want to use a different name professionally whilst your passport shows your legal name, you can request an 'observation' be added to your passport. This notes that you use another name for professional purposes. However, this observed name cannot be used for travel—the name on your travel documents must match your passport exactly.
Children's Passport: How to Change Name on Your Child's UK Passport
If you need to change a child's name on a UK passport, you'll need consent from everyone with parental responsibility. The child will need a deed poll if the name change isn't reflected in their birth certificate, and all parties with parental responsibility must agree to the change and provide written consent.
Ensure the Name on Your Passport Matches Your Travel Documents
The name on your passport must match the name on your flight tickets exactly. Even small variations—like 'Jon' instead of 'John'—can cause problems at check-in or border control. If you've changed your name and already booked travel, either update your passport before travelling or contact your airline to amend your booking to match your current passport name.
Your name on your travel insurance, EHIC/GHIC cards, and any other travel documents should also match. A passport matches the name on these documents helps ensure smooth, stress-free travel.
Important Tips for Your British Passport Change of Name
1. Timing matters: You don't have to change your passport immediately after a name change, but the name on your travel documents must match your passport for travel.
2. Keep original documents safe: You'll get your original marriage certificate, deed poll, and other documents back after your application is processed.
3. Update other documents: Once you have your new passport, use it to update your driving licence, bank accounts, and other records.
4. Check processing times: Current passport processing times fluctuate, so check GOV.UK before booking any travel.
5. Double-check your application: Errors on your form could delay your application or require you to reapply and pay again.
Do You Have to Change Your Name on Your Passport Immediately?
You don't legally have to change your passport immediately after changing your name. However, if you plan to travel, the name on your passport matches the name on your ticket must be exact. This means if you've legally changed your name and want to travel under your new name, you'll need to update your passport first.
Some people choose to keep travelling on their old passport until it expires, then apply for a new passport in their new name at renewal time. This is perfectly acceptable as long as you book travel in the name shown on your current passport.
Need to Update Your Passport? When You Must Get a New Passport
You need to update your passport and get a new passport if you want to travel internationally under your new name. You also need a new passport if your appearance has changed significantly and you can no longer be recognised from your passport photo.
However, you do not need to update your British passport if you simply change your address, get a new job, or change your marital status but keep your name. These changes don't require a new passport document.
Summary: How to Get a New Passport and Change Name on Your British Passport
Changing your name on your UK passport is a straightforward process when you have the right documents. Whether your name change is due to marriage, civil partnership, divorce, or deed poll, HM Passport Office has clear procedures to help you update your British passport quickly.
Remember: you'll need to apply for a new passport rather than amending your existing one. Gather your proof of name change (marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, decree absolute, or deed poll), complete your passport application, and submit everything to the passport office. Your new British passport will arrive with your new name, ready for your next adventure.
Learn how to change your name on other documents too—once you have your new passport, updating your driving licence, bank accounts, and other records becomes much easier with your new identification in hand. The name on your UK passport is your primary identity document, so keeping it current ensures smooth travel and easy identification.
For the most up-to-date information and to apply for your new passport, visit the official GOV.UK passport website.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Passport Name Changes
How Long Does It Take to Change Name on Your UK Passport?
Standard processing typically takes 3-6 weeks, though times vary. Check current processing times on GOV.UK before applying. Premium and fast-track services are available if you need a new passport more quickly—the Online Premium service can issue a passport within 2 days.
Can I Travel While Waiting for My Passport in Your New Name?
No, you cannot travel whilst your passport is being processed as you'll have submitted your old passport with your application. Wait until you receive your new passport before booking travel. If you have urgent travel needs, consider the premium or fast-track services.
What If the Name on Your Passport Doesn't Match Other Documents?
Your passport must match the name you're legally known by. If there's a mismatch between your passport and other documents, you may need to provide additional evidence such as a statutory declaration or deed poll showing how your name changed. The name on your passport matches all your other identification is important for avoiding complications.
Do I Need a Countersignature to Change Name on Passport?
Generally, no. You don't need a countersignature if you're only changing your name and can still be recognised from your existing passport photo. A countersignature is only required if your appearance has significantly changed.
What Happens to Time Remaining on My Old Passport?
Unfortunately, any time remaining on your old passport will not be added to your new one. You'll receive a new 10 year passport regardless of how much validity remained on your previous passport. Your passport will be cancelled when your new one is issued.
Can I Change My Name on a British Passport to Any Name I Want?
There are some restrictions. The passport office will not accept names that are obscene, promote hatred, or are obviously unserious. Your new name should also be one you intend to use your new name for all purposes—not just for travel. If you've legally changed your name through deed poll or marriage, you should be using that name across all your official documents.
How Do I Change a Child's Name on a UK Passport?
You'll need consent from everyone with parental responsibility, a deed poll (if the name differs from the birth certificate), and letters of consent. The application process is similar to adult name changes but requires additional documentation proving all parties agree to the change.
What Evidence of Your Name Change Does the Passport Office Require?
The passport office requires documentary evidence of your change of name. This could be a marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, decree absolute, or deed poll. If you changed your name by deed poll, you'll also need to show evidence of your name change being used—such as a bank statement or utility bill in your new name.
What Documents Do I Need to Change My Name on My UK Passport?
The documents you need depend on the reason for your name change:
• Marriage/Civil Partnership: Your original marriage or civil partnership certificate
• Divorce: Decree absolute or final order, plus your marriage certificate or birth certificate showing your maiden name, plus a signed statement confirming you're using your former name for all purposes
• Deed Poll: Your original deed poll document plus proof you're using the new name (e.g., bank statement, utility bill, or driving licence in your new name)
• All applications: Your current passport, a recent passport photo meeting UK requirements, and the application fee
Only original documents are accepted—photocopies and laminated certificates will be rejected.
Do I Have to Change My Name on My Passport After Marriage in the UK?
No, there is no legal requirement to change your passport after marriage. You do not need to get a new passport if you change your marital status but keep your name. However, if you do choose to take your spouse's surname (or create a double-barrelled name), you should update your passport before travelling under your new name. The name on your passport must match the name on your flight bookings and travel documents exactly.
Can I Travel While My Passport Name Change Is in Progress?
No, you cannot travel while your passport application is being processed. You must submit your current passport with your application, so you won't have a valid travel document until your new passport arrives. Do not book travel until you have received your new passport—your new passport will have a different number from your old one.
Can I Use My Marriage Certificate Instead of a Deed Poll?
Yes, if your name change is due to marriage or civil partnership. Your marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate is sufficient evidence for changing to your spouse's surname or creating a double-barrelled surname. You do not need a deed poll in these circumstances. However, if you want to change your first name, middle name, or adopt an entirely different surname not related to your marriage, you will need a deed poll.
Can I Change Back to My Maiden Name Without a Divorce in the UK?
Yes, you can revert to your maiden name at any time, even if you are only separated and not yet divorced. However, you will need a deed poll to do this. You cannot use your marriage certificate alone to change back to your maiden name before your divorce is finalised. Changing your name by deed poll does not affect any divorce proceedings—you simply need to notify the other party of your name change. All subsequent divorce documentation will then be in your maiden name.
Can I Change My Name on My Passport Online?
Yes, you can apply online through the GOV.UK website. The online application costs £94.50 (compared to £107 for a paper application). You'll upload a digital photo online, then receive instructions for posting your supporting documents (such as your marriage certificate or deed poll) to HM Passport Office. The online process is generally faster and more straightforward than using a paper form.
Can I Fly with a Different Name on My Passport?
No. The name on your passport must match the name on your flight ticket exactly. Airlines and border control will not allow you to travel if there is a mismatch between your passport name and your booking name—even small variations can cause problems. If you have changed your name and already booked travel, you must either update your passport before travelling or contact your airline to change the name on your booking to match your current passport.
Can I Renew and Change Name on Passport When It Is Next Expiring?
Yes, you can wait until your passport is due for renewal to change your name. Many people choose to continue travelling on their current passport (in their old name) until it expires, then apply for a new passport in their new name. This is perfectly acceptable as long as you book all travel in the name shown on your current valid passport. Just remember that the name on your passport must match your travel bookings exactly.
Can I Use My UK Passport with My Maiden Name After Getting Married?
Yes, your passport remains valid after marriage even if you've taken your spouse's surname. You can continue to travel on your passport in your maiden name—just make sure all your travel bookings are in your maiden name to match. There is no deadline or legal requirement to update your passport after marriage. Many people wait until their passport is due for renewal before changing the name.
Can You Travel with Your Old Passport After Name Change?
If you've legally changed your name but haven't yet updated your passport, you can still travel using your old passport—but you must book all travel in the name shown on that passport. Once you apply for a new passport with your new name, your old passport will be cancelled and can no longer be used for travel. Your cancelled old passport may be returned to you, which can be useful if it contains unexpired visas.
Do You Have to Pay to Change Your Name on a New Passport?
Yes. You must pay the standard passport application fee to change your name. There is no discounted rate for name changes—the cost is the same as a renewal: £94.50 online or £107 by paper application. Any time remaining on your old passport will not be transferred to your new passport; you will receive a new 10-year passport regardless of how much validity was left on your old one.
How Long Does the Name Change Process Take?
Standard passport applications typically take around 3 weeks, but processing times can vary. It may take longer if additional information is needed or if there are errors on your application. Always check current processing times on GOV.UK before applying, and do not book travel until you have your new passport in hand.
How Do I Expedite and Change My Name on My Passport Quickly?
If you need your passport urgently, HM Passport Office offers two expedited services:
• Online Premium (£222): You can get your passport as quickly as 2 days. You'll book an appointment online, submit your application, and attend a passport customer service centre to present your documents and collect your new passport. Note: The Digital Premium Service may not accept applications with personal detail changes.
• 1-Week Fast Track (£178): Requires a paper application form. Book an appointment online, complete your form, and attend a passport office with your documents. You'll receive your passport within approximately one week.
Passport customer service centres are located in Belfast, Durham, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Newport, and Peterborough.
Is There a Deadline to Changing Your Name After Getting Married in the UK?
No, there is no deadline. You can change your name on your passport at any time after marriage—immediately, years later, or when your passport is next due for renewal. However, we recommend having at least one form of official ID (passport or driving licence) in your new name for practical purposes.
Multiple Nationality: Can I Have Two Passports with Different Names?
Generally, no. If you have dual citizenship and hold a non-British passport, the name and gender on your non-British passport must match the name and gender you want on your British passport. You should change the details on your non-British passport before applying for a new British passport.
However, there are exceptions if you cannot change your name on your foreign passport due to:
• The law in your country of origin restricts or prevents name changes
• Your country of origin does not permit dual nationality
• You would need to travel to your country of origin to change your name, but doing so would place you at high risk
• You have changed your name due to gender transition and your country of origin does not recognise gender changes
In these exceptional cases, you may be issued a British passport in your new name with an observation noting your foreign passport details. Contact HM Passport Office for guidance on your specific situation.
What Should I Do If I Lose My Passport During the Name Change Process?
If your passport is lost or stolen before you've submitted your application, you must cancel it immediately using the GOV.UK service. You can then apply for a replacement passport in your new name. When replacing a lost or stolen passport, you will need someone to confirm your identity online (a countersignatory), and the application costs £107.
If you've already submitted your application and your documents are lost in transit, contact HM Passport Office immediately on 0300 222 0000 (open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, 9am-5:30pm weekends and bank holidays). They can advise on next steps and help trace your documents.
What Happens If There Is a Mistake on the Name on My Birth Certificate That Can't Be Corrected?
If your birth certificate contains an error that cannot be corrected (for example, because there is no evidence of what the correct information should have been), you can still apply for a passport. HM Passport Office has procedures for dealing with applications where customers cannot provide the usual supporting documents.
You may need to provide alternative evidence, such as other official documents showing your correct name, statutory declarations, or evidence that you've attempted to correct the birth certificate. In some cases, you can use a deed poll to establish your correct name, which will then be accepted by the passport office. Contact HM Passport Office directly if you're in this situation—they will assess your case individually and advise on what alternative documentation they can accept.
How Much Does It Cost to Change My Name on My British Passport?
The cost to change your name on a British passport is the same as a standard passport renewal—there's no extra charge for processing a name change. Current fees are:
• Online application: £94.50
• Paper application: £107
• Post Office Check and Send (optional): Additional £16
• 1-Week Fast Track: £178
• Online Premium (collect in 2 days): £222
Remember that any time remaining on your old passport will not be added to your new one—you'll receive a fresh 10-year passport regardless.
