Guidance

Evidence to change a name: caseworker guidance

Tells HM Passport Office staff about the evidence needed before changing an adult or child’s name on a passport.

From:: HM Passport Office
Published: 4 March 2021
Last updated: 1 December 2022 — See all updates

Documents

Names: evidence to change a name

HTML

Details

This guidance tells HM Passport Office staff about the evidence we need before we can issue a passport to an adult or child who has had a change of name.

Published 4 March 2021
Last updated 1 December 2022 + show all updates

1 December 2022
Updated guidance published.
4 March 2021
First published.

Update history

2025-04-02 09:37
Updated to clarify we can accept evidence of a name change which does not provide the full name, as long as it shows the changed name, and to tell examiners, if the customer does not have the evidence which shows a link between their old and new names, including multiple changes, they must apply for a statutory declaration.

2024-03-05 08:35
Updated Names: evidence to change a name guidance to clarify customers must submit 2 pieces of evidence when changing their name, unless it meets our exceptions.

2022-12-01 16:24
Updated guidance published.