Whether you’ve just got married, divorced, or officially changed your name by deed poll, updating your passport to reflect your new name is an important step. But how exactly do you go about it? Don’t worry it’s actually quite straightforward once you know what’s required. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of changing the name on your UK passport in simple, clear steps.

🧾 First Things First: When Should You Update Your Passport?

You’ll need to change your name on your passport if:

You’ve legally changed your name (by deed poll or statutory declaration)
You’ve gotten married or entered a civil partnership
You’ve divorced and returned to a previous surname

It’s a good idea to update your passport before travelling. Some countries require that your booking name and passport name match exactly, and mismatches can cause issues at check-in or border control.

✍️ How to Apply for a Passport Name Change

You’ll need to apply for a new passport you can’t simply “edit” the existing one. But don’t worry, the process is similar to a renewal.

Here’s what to do:

1. Gather Your Documents

Depending on your reason for changing your name, you’ll need to provide the following:

Marriage or civil partnership certificate (if you’ve changed your name after marriage)
Decree absolute and your birth certificate or previous passport (if you’ve changed your name after divorce)
Change of name deed (Deed Poll or Statutory Declaration)

Make sure all documents are original or officially certified copies won’t be accepted.

2. Fill Out a Passport Application

You can apply:

Online via the official gov.uk website
Or using a paper form from the Post Office (ask for a ‘passport application form’)

Choose the option for a renewal if your passport is still valid. If it has expired, you’ll still follow the same steps but may need to provide extra ID.

3. Submit a New Passport Photo

This photo must meet all UK passport photo requirements (neutral expression, correct background, no filters, etc.). Since it’s a name change, you’ll need a new photo even if your old passport photo was recent.

4. Pay the Fee

As of 2025, the standard adult passport renewal costs:

£88.50 (online)
£100 (paper form)

Prices may vary slightly depending on how you apply or if you use a premium/fast-track service.

5. Send Everything to HM Passport Office

If you applied online, you’ll still need to send your supporting documents by post. You’ll be given instructions at the end of the online process.

🔄 What Happens Next?

Once your documents are received, HM Passport Office will process your application. This usually takes about 3 weeks, but it can take longer during peak times. You’ll get your new passport with your updated name and they’ll return your original documents too.

✈️ Travelling Soon?

If your trip is coming up soon, try not to book travel tickets in your new name until your passport arrives just in case of delays. Or, travel under your old name if your documents still match. You can always update things after you return.

💡 Final Tip

If you’ve changed your name, remember to update it with other official organisations too—like your bank, DVLA, NHS, and GP. Keeping things consistent across the board helps avoid confusion later on.

👋 Wrapping Up

Changing your name on your UK passport might sound like a hassle, but it’s really just a matter of following the right steps and providing the right documents. If you’re prepared and organised, you’ll have your updated passport in no time.

Need a compliant passport photo for your new application? Visit Passport Photo Digital for easy, government-approved photos you can take from home.

How Do I Change the Name on My Passport in the UK?