Passport News: Adding Spouse Name on Passport Becomes a Cake Walk! New Rules Explained

Passport News: Here’s an important Passport update for married individuals applying for or updating their Indian passport. Over the years, the government has taken steps to simplify the application process. Now, a new change in passport rules has been introduced, making it easier to include your spouse's name in the passport — and this comes as a major relief, especially for those who do not have a marriage certificate.

No Marriage Certificate Required to Add Spouse's Name on Passport

Until now, adding a spouse’s name to your Indian passport required a marriage certificate. This often created hurdles, especially in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where many couples do not register their marriages officially.

But here’s the good news: under the new passport rules, you no longer need a marriage certificate to add your partner’s name. This new rule brings great relief to couples who haven’t formalised their marriage legally but still want their relationship recognised in official documents.

What is the New Process to Add Spouse’s Name in Passport?

The government has made the process very simple. Here's what you need to do to include your spouse’s name in the passport:

• Submit a joint photo of the couple.
• Provide signatures of both partners.

That’s it! These two things are enough to update the passport. This update in passport rules is especially helpful in areas where official marriage registration isn’t very common.

Change in Passport Rules: Why This Matters

This change ensures that people are not denied a basic facility just because of paperwork. It also shows the government’s efforts to make systems more practical and inclusive. The latest passport news reflects sensitivity towards ground realities in different states.

Removing Spouse’s Name Still Needs Divorce Certificate

While adding a spouse’s name has become easier, removing it after a divorce still requires proper documents. You’ll need to submit either:

• A divorce certificate, or
• A valid court order.

So, while there’s a clear change in passport rules for adding a name, the process for removal remains strict to avoid misuse.