How to change the name on a UK passport

Whether due to marriage, civil partnership, or personal reasons, ensuring your passport reflects your new identity is highly important for seamless travel and official documentation. However, questions may arise, such as, “Do I have to change my name on my passport after marriage?” Or, “Is it possible to travel with an old passport after a name change?”

Our article answers these questions and covers other topics, such as the application process and where to obtain a UK passport photo that meets official requirements.

Table of contents

• Who needs to apply for a name change on a UK passport
• Step-by-step process: changing the name in your passport online
• How to apply for a passport name change in person?
• Documents required to change the name on a UK passport
• UK passport photo standards
• Online UK Passport Photo Maker
• UK Passport Photo App
• How much does it cost to change the name on a UK passport?
• How long does it take to change your name on your passport in the UK?
• FAQ

Who can change the name on their passport in the UK?

If your legal name has changed, you'll need to apply for a passport update. Here are some common scenarios where this applies:

• If you have legally changed your name using a deed poll, statutory declaration, or affidavit.
• If your name has changed due to marriage or civil partnership.
• If you’re returning to a previous name after a divorce or ending a civil partnership.
• If you've changed your name as part of the gender recognition process, supported by a Gender Recognition Certificate.
• If you are a parent or guardian applying for a child's passport name change, with the necessary consent and supporting documents, like birth certificates or court orders.

Do I have to change my passport to my married name? Your passport should reflect your legal name. Therefore, if you've legally changed any part of your name for any reason, you need to update it before your current passport expires.

You can apply for a passport name change after marriage online, through the mail, or at certain Post Offices.

Step-by-step process: changing the name in your passport online

Want to update your name on your UK passport online? Here's a simple guide:

1. Gather all necessary documents.
2. Go to the UK Government's official passport service and choose "Apply Online".
3. Fill out the passport name change application form with details like your current passport number, old name, new name, and the reason for the change.
4. Upload your documents and photos.
5. Pay the required fee and submit your application.
6. After submitting, you'll get instructions on where to send your original passport and any physical documents needed.
7. Your new passport, showing your updated legal name, will be delivered to you by courier.

How to apply for a passport name change in person?

If you prefer to apply using a paper form, here's what you need to do:

1. Obtain a passport application form from a Post Office offering the Check and Send service, or request one online or by phone.
2. Fill out the form, making sure to clearly state your new name along with any previous names.
3. Attach two recent passport-sized photos that meet UK standards.
4. Mail your completed application along with all necessary documents, your photos, and your current passport to HM Passport Office.
5. Pay the fee for processing a paper application.
6. Once ready, you will be informed that your new passport is available. You can opt to have it delivered by courier or pick it up, depending on the service chosen.

Documents required to change the name on a UK passport

Applicants must provide two categories of British passport name change documents: proof of your legal name change and evidence that you're using the new name officially.

Proof of legal name change (original documents required):

• marriage or civil partnership certificate (for surname changes due to marriage or partnership);
• deed poll or change of name deed (for other legal name changes);
• gender recognition certificate (for changes in legal gender and name);
• adoption certificate or order (for adopted children);
• divorce decree absolute/final order for a passport name change after divorce (additional documents may be needed if the maiden name is not mentioned);
• statutory declaration or affidavit (if a deed poll is not available).

Evidence of new name use (official documentation):

• utility bill, bank statement, payslip, or council letter showing your new name;
• updated driving license with your new name;
• national identity card, foreign passport, or other government-issued ID with your new name;
• child benefit record (for minors).

Other necessary documentation:

• a completed and signed passport application form (paper or online);
• a digital passport photo that meets compliance standards (if you apply online) or two printed photos for in-person applications;
• your current passport (this will be cancelled);
• for children, additional parental consent or court orders may be necessary.

UK passport photo standards

To ensure your UK passport photo is accepted, it must adhere to specific biometric standards:

• The size for a printed photo should be 45×35 mm.
• For digital photos, the dimensions should be at least 600 × 750 pixels, with a file size ranging between 50 KB and 10 MB.
• The face (from chin to crown) should occupy 29 mm to 34 mm of the total image height.
• The background should be plain and light-colored, such as white, cream, or light grey, without any patterns, objects, or shadows.
• Ensure there is bright and even lighting, avoiding glare, shadows, or red-eye.
• Only colour photographs are acceptable.
• Maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed, looking straight at the camera, and eyes open.
• Avoid hair covering your eyes or face.
• Wear plain, everyday clothing. Uniforms are not recommended.
• Headwear is not allowed unless it's for religious or medical reasons, and your face must be fully visible.
• Glasses are generally discouraged unless necessary for medical reasons, and there must not be any glare or reflections. Sunglasses and tinted glasses are not allowed.

Here is a photo example:

Online UK Passport Photo Maker

A convenient way to ensure your UK passport photo meets the required standards is to use an online photo editing service like Visafoto.com. Since 2013, Visafoto has specialised in preparing document photos for passports, visas, and driving licenses worldwide, ensuring they meet official criteria.

Take your photo in natural lighting and upload it to Visafoto.com. The website handles all adjustments, such as format, background, and size, for you.

Here’s an example of what the original photo you upload might look like:

You will receive a digital file suitable for online submissions, as well as a version ready for physical printing. If you're dissatisfied with the result, we offer free replacements. Additionally, if your photo is rejected, we will issue a refund.

UK Passport Photo App

Prefer using your phone? The 7ID app from Visafoto.com is a great option. This app, compatible with both iPhone and Android devices, enables you to capture and customise passport photos quickly and cost-effectively straight from your mobile device.

With 7ID, simply upload your photo, specify the type of document and the country you need it for. The app will automatically adjust your photo to meet all the official requirements, ensuring the correct size, format, and background colour, with your face and eyes perfectly positioned. You’ll receive a digital file along with a print-ready template suitable for common paper sizes like 4×6, A4, A5, and B5.

Should you run into any issues, our technical support team is available around the clock to help you out.

How much does it cost to change the name on a UK passport?

Changing the name costs the same as getting a new or replacement passport, since a new document will be issued with your updated details. As of 2025, the fees are:

• £94.50 for an online application for a standard adult passport with 34 pages;
• £107 for applications submitted via paper forms;
• an additional £16 if you use the Post Office’s Passport Check and Send service.

For urgent updates, expedited services are available:

• The Fast Track service costs approximately £178.
• The Premium service costs around £222.

This article explains the British passport fees in detail.

How long does it take to change your name on your passport in the UK?

How long does it take to get a new passport after a name change? Typically, changing your name on a UK passport takes between 3 to 6 weeks. For expedited passport renewal with a name change, the UK offers the following services:

• Fast Track. Your passport can be ready in approximately one week. This requires booking an appointment at a Passport Office.
• Premium service. You can get your passport on the same day.

FAQ

Can I travel with my old passport if my ticket is in my new name?

No, you cannot travel internationally with a passport that has a name different from your plane ticket. The names on your passport and your ticket must match to prevent complications at check-in or border control. If you've changed your name, you must obtain a new passport with your new name before travelling. You can use your old passport only if your flight is booked under your previous name.

Do I have to wait until my current passport expires to change my name?

No, you don’t need to wait for your current UK passport to expire before updating your name. You can apply for a new passport with your updated name at any time, by filling out a renewal application and providing legal proof of your name change, like a marriage certificate or deed poll. Note that once the new passport is issued, your old passport will be cancelled, and any remaining validity won't be transferred.

Can I keep my old passport after changing my name?

Unfortunately, you cannot keep your old UK passport once your name has been updated. As part of the renewal process, your old passport is invalidated and must be surrendered. The new passport will have your updated name, and the old one can no longer be used for travel or identification.

Do children need parental consent to change their name on a passport?

Yes, for a child's name to be changed in a UK passport, consent from everyone with parental responsibility is required. If one parent disagrees, the issue may have to be resolved through a court order before a new passport with the changed name can be issued.

Can I change the name in my UK passport if I live abroad?

Yes, you can change your name on your UK passport while living abroad. British citizens overseas can request a name change by applying through the nearest British Embassy, Consulate, or Passport Processing Centre where they are residing.

Will I lose the remaining validity on my old passport when I change my name?

You won’t have to wait for passport expiry to change your name. When you get a new passport with your updated name, your old passport will be cancelled, and any remaining validity will not be transferred. While you can continue using your old passport until you have it changed, make sure all travel reservations match the name on your existing passport.