How to add surname in Indian passport

If your passport does not have surname or if your name is written incorrectly,, you may face problems when applying for visa. If you forgot to add your surname while applying or want to correct it, you need to apply for reissue of passport. In this guide, we’ll explain how to add or correct surname in Indian passport, what documents you need, the process, and tips to avoid delays or mistakes.

If you are looking for assistance to add your surname to your passport, Itzeazy is here to help you. 

Is surname mandatory in passport?

No, it’s not compulsory to have surname in Indian passport. But if you want to travel abroad, surname is almost always needed. Countries like the UAE and the U.S. ask for both first name and surname in visa and travel forms. If your passport has only one name, you may face problems like:

• Trouble while applying for a visa
• Airline check-in issues
• Your name showing as FNU (First Name Unknown) on tickets

So, it’s better to add surname in your passport to avoid these issues in the future.

Reasons to add a surname to Indian Passport

According to the Passport Seva Service, if there is any change in surname, you need to apply for passport reissue. Here are the main scenarios:

• Missing Surname (Single Name Issue) – Sometimes, the entire name gets printed in the “Given Name” field, leaving the “Surname” blank. For example, Manoj Kumar appears fully under Given Name.
• Name Change After Marriage or Divorce – Many people choose to add their spouse’s surname after marriage or go back to their maiden name after divorce
• Complete Name Change: Those who decide to adopt an entirely new name and surname
• Spelling or Typo Errors – Even a small mistake in your surname can cause mismatches with Aadhaar, PAN or other official ID and may create identity verification problem

Documents required for surname change in passport

Basic documents required for surname change in passport –

• Old passport with self-attested copies of first and last two pages
• Proof of address (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
• Proof of Non-ECR category

Additional documents as per reason of change name in passport

1. After marriage/ re marriage: Photocopy of spouse passport
2. Others:
   • At least two public/school documents issued in the desired/ applied changed name to confirm the name has changed
   • Clippings copy of two local news papers or State Government

Other acceptable address proof:

• Water, electricity, or telephone bills
• Income Tax assessment order
• Voter ID, Aadhaar Card
• Rent agreement or active account bank passbook
• Employer certificate on letterhead
• Spouse passport copy (For adult), Parent’s passport copy (For Minor)

Fees required to change surname on passport India

For Adults (above 18 years)

Application category	Passport fees
Normal	Rs. 1500/-
Tatkal	Rs. 3500/-

For Minor (below 18 years)

Application category	Passport fees
Normal	Rs. 1000/-
Tatkal	Rs. 3000/-

How to Add Surname in Indian Passport

If you want to change surname then you need to apply for reissue of passport. You need to submit the documents to fix surname problems in your passport in India. These documents can vary depending on the reason why you want to change surname.

• Go to the official Passport Seva website
• Register a new account or log in to your existing account.
• Click on “Apply for Fresh Passport / Reissue of Passport.”
• Choose the following options:
  • Applying For: Reissue of Passport
  • Reason for Reissue: Change in Existing Personal Particulars
  • Change in Particulars: Name

• Carefully fill in your Given Name and New Surname exactly as you want them on your passport.
• Pay the required fee online and book an appointment at your nearest PSK
• Print the application receipt with your ARN and appointment details.
• On your appointment day – Go to the PSK or POPSK with your printed receipt.
• Carry originals and self-attested copies of documents
• The officials will verify your documents and confirm the name change.
• After approval, new passport with the added surname will be sent to your address.

What Happens to Passport After Surname Change

• Your old passport is canceled and returned to you with “CANCELED” stamped
• A new passport is issued with your correct surname and a new passport number (Validity is 10 years for adults)
• The new passport is marked as a “Re-issue”, linking your travel history
• Any valid visas in the old passport remain valid
• For travel, carry both passport (the new one and the old one with valid visa)

Adding Spouse Name in Passport

Passport Reissue Process in India

Documents Required for Indian Passport Reissue

FAQs

Can I add surname in my Indian passport?

Yes, you can add or change surname in passport. You need to apply for passport reissue to add surname in passport.

Is police verification required for name change in passport?

Yes, you have to apply for passport reissue for name change in passport. Thus it requires to have police verification for it.

How much time does it take for passport surname change/addition?

It takes around 30 to 45 days for passport reissue of the surname change purpose.

Is surname mandatory for passport in India?

No, surname is not strictly mandatory for Indian passport. You can technically leave the surname field blank and enter your full name in the “Given Name” field. But, for international travel and visa applications, having a surname is practically necessary to avoid issues with airlines, immigration, and visa approvals.

What happens to my passport if I change my surname?

When you change your surname, your old passport is canceled, and new passport is issued. You need to submit your existing passport with your application. The old passport is stamped CANCELED and returned to you with the new one.

The new passport will:

• Show your correct surname on the personal details page.
• Have new passport number.
• Be valid for 10 years for adults (unless stated otherwise).
• Marked as a “Re-issue” so your travel history is linked to the previous passport.

Why to choose Itzeazy?

🛩️ India’s top passport service provider – Not just traditional passport consultant

🛩️ Faster processing – We make the process process faster

🛩️ Guaranteed Passport Service– Get guarantee success with our advisors

🛩️ No hidden cost – Transparent pricing

🛩️ Accurate guidance – We have the knowledge and experience to make the process smooth and stress-free

🛩️ Our presence – Apply for passport service from anywhere in India, always open for you

🛩️ Safety & Confidentiality – Your privacy is out utmost priority

You can book order online to add surname  in passport. For any query or concern please speak to one of our relationship manager over phone or chat. You can also write to us. We will get back to you.