NamesNames: names that cannot be used in passports: caseworker guidancepassports
TellsGuidance HMon Passport Office staff about names that cannot be used in passports.
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This guidance tells HM Passport Office staff about names that cannot be used in passports and how to deal with applications that have them, including names that:
- cause public offence
- breach trademark or copyright
- our system cannot accept for technical reasons
Last updated 14
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Updated version published.
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Accessible version added.
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First published.
Update history
2025-11-24 15:34
This guidance has been updated throughout. A list of changes made since the last version is in the document.
2025-04-10 12:05
Added guidance about names that contain apostrophe. Updated information for examiners about adding a name to a passport and how to shorten a child’s middle name.
2022-12-14 09:44
Updated version published.
2022-09-29 11:46
Accessible version added.