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Changing the name on your passport

Checked against GOV.UK on 9 October 2026

Quick answerThe name on your passport must match the name on your travel booking. If you change your name, you need a new passport (£102 online). Newly-weds can apply up to 3 months before the ceremony for a post-dated passport in their new name.

⏱️ Honeymoon booked in your new name but your passport is in your old name? The names must match — either book in your passport name or get a new passport in time.

What to do now

Decide which name to travel in, and book your travel in the name that will be on your passport on the day you travel.
Gather your documents — for example your marriage or civil partnership certificate.
Apply for a new passport: £102 online or £115.50 by paper form. No countersignature is needed for a name change.
If you need it within 3 weeks, use the 1-week Fast Track service (£192), which can be used to change your details.

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Booking travel in the right name

GOV.UK says the name on your passport must match the one you use when you book your travel. If your tickets are in your new name but your passport is still in your old name, you could be refused boarding.

If your marital status changes but you keep your name, you do not need a new passport.

Getting a passport before your wedding

You can apply up to 3 months before the ceremony.
Your old passport is cancelled when you apply.
Your new passport is post-dated, so you cannot use it before the ceremony.
Some countries will not issue visas for post-dated passports.
You must send a form signed by the minister or registrar.

Documents you need

After marriage or civil partnership: your marriage or civil partnership certificate (also for double-barrelled names).
After divorce or going back to a previous surname: your birth certificate, a signed statement that you use the name for all purposes, evidence you use it (such as a payslip) and the certificate showing both names.
Other name changes: a deed poll, statutory declaration or affidavit, plus evidence you use the new name.

Good to know

You get a new 10-year passport, and time left on your old one is not added.
Unexpired visas in your old passport may become invalid — check with the embassy that issued them.
Update any ESTA, eTA or other travel authorisation with your new passport details.

Frequently asked questions

Can I travel on my old passport after getting married?

Yes, as long as your booking is in the name shown on that passport. The names must match.

How much does it cost to change the name on a passport?

£102 online or £115.50 by paper form — the same as a renewal.

Can I get a passport in my married name before the wedding?

Yes. You can apply up to 3 months before the ceremony for a post-dated passport, but you cannot use it until after the ceremony and your old passport is cancelled.

Official sources

UK Passport Checker is an independent guide and is not part of HM Passport Office. Always apply through GOV.UK.