An error in your passport's name or date of birth (DOB) can cause serious inconveniences, especially when applying for visas, booking international flights, or during immigration checks. If you've discovered such an error after the passport is issued, it's crucial to correct it through official processes outlined by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India.
In this article, we will walk you through the correct procedure to correct name or DOB errors in your Indian passport, detail required documents, and provide tips for a smooth application process.
Types of Passport Corrections Allowed
Before proceeding, understand the two major correction types the Indian Passport Office permits post-issuance:
1. Name Correction or Change
-
Minor spelling errors
-
Name change after marriage/divorce
-
Change due to numerology or religious reasons
-
Name change due to adoption or gender reassignment
2. Date of Birth (DOB) Correction
-
Clerical errors made by passport officials
-
Update due to new documentary evidence
-
Error during online form submission
Note: Major DOB changes (more than 2 years for adults) are usually not permitted unless there is a valid legal and documentary reason.
When Can You Apply for Correction?
You can apply for correction:
-
Immediately after noticing the error
-
Before passport expiry
-
Even after expiry, through reissue application
How to Correct Name or DOB in Indian Passport
Step 1: Book Appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
Visit Passport Seva and:
-
Register/Login to your account
-
Fill the application for “Reissue of Passport” with reason “Change in Existing Personal Particulars”
-
Choose the PSK/POPSK of your preference
-
Make payment and book an appointment
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Documents for Name Correction:
-
Original Passport
-
Annexure E (Self-declaration for name change)
-
Marriage Certificate (if name changed after marriage)
-
Divorce Decree or Affidavit (if reverting to maiden name)
-
Gazette Notification (for major name changes)
-
Two newspaper clippings (for public notice in case of major name change)
Documents for DOB Correction:
-
Original Passport
-
Birth Certificate issued by Municipal Authority or Registrar of Births
-
School Leaving Certificate (only if Birth Certificate is unavailable)
-
Affidavit stating reasons for DOB correction
-
Proof of early records (if correction is significant)
⚠️ Note: For correcting DOB of minors, both parents' documents may be required.
Step 3: Visit Passport Seva Kendra
-
Carry your appointment receipt
-
Submit the application and documents
-
Complete biometric verification
-
Wait for final approval by the Verification Officer
Fees for Correction of Name or DOB in Passport
| Type | Fee (36 Pages Booklet) | Tatkaal Option |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Reissue (Name/DOB) | ₹1,500 approx | ₹3,500 approx |
Charges may vary slightly depending on booklet size and mode.
Police Verification: Will It Be Required?
-
Yes, in most correction cases (especially DOB or major name changes), a fresh police verification will be initiated.
-
For minor spelling corrections, verification may be waived at officer discretion.
Time Taken for Correction
| Type of Correction | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Minor Corrections | 5–7 working days |
| Major Name/DOB Change | 10–21 working days (with Police Verification) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Submitting invalid or outdated birth certificates
-
Not publishing name change in Gazette for major changes
-
Entering incorrect data while filling online application
-
Ignoring the Annexure format requirements
Can You Travel While Passport Correction is Pending?
No. Once you've submitted for reissue, your current passport is invalid for travel. Wait until the corrected passport is delivered.
Name Change After Marriage: Special Note
For women changing names post-marriage:
-
No need to produce Gazette Notification
-
Provide Marriage Certificate or Annexure D (declaration by spouse)
-
Change of surname or addition of husband's name is processed faster
What If Passport Was Issued With Wrong DOB Long Ago?
-
Submit valid birth proof with explanation
-
Legal affidavit may be required
-
If DOB difference is more than 2 years, expect stricter scrutiny and possible rejection
Final Words
Correcting your name or date of birth on an Indian passport might seem complex, but with the right documents and clear intent, the process is streamlined. Always verify entries thoroughly before passport issuance to avoid this issue in the first place.
We at Smotpro.in provide you with fast and reliable passport and visa services. Our dedicated support team and experienced professionals ensure your corrections and applications are handled with precision and care.
Our office -
Comments
Post a Comment