Does Your Passport Number Change When You Change Your Name?

A Passport number is one of the most important pieces of identification that you have. It identifies you as a citizen of a certain country and it has your personal information stored in it. So, what happens to your passport number when you legally change your name? Does your passport number change when you change your name officially?

In this blog post, we will explore whether or not the passport number changes when you change your name. Stay tuned to learn more!

Does Your Passport Number Change When You Change Your Name?

Yes, your passport number changes when you change your name. To update your name in your passport, you will need to submit a new application with proof of your name change. Upon the arrival of the new passport, the name and the passport number both will be changed.

You cannot simply update your name on an existing passport. 

Your passport number would also change if you were to get a new passport altogether.

The process for changing your name on a passport is similar to applying for a new passport. You will need to submit a completed application, proof of your name change, and supporting documentation. 

You will also need to pay the application fee. Hence,  it is generally cheaper and easier to simply apply for a new passport than to go through the process of changing your name on an existing passport.

Why Do People Change Name On Their Passport?

There are a few reasons why you might need to change your name on your passport. Perhaps you got married and took your spouse’s last name. 

Or maybe you got divorced and went back to using your maiden name. You may have also legally changed your name for other reasons. 

Regardless of the reason, if you need to update your name in your passport, you will need to submit a new application with proof of your name change.

What Are Some Common Types Of Proof Of Name Change?

There are a few common types of proof of name change. These include Gazette papers, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders. You will need to submit one of these documents, along with your application, in order to have your name changed on your passport.

What Is A Passport Number And What Is It Used For?

A passport number is a unique identifier assigned to each passport. It is used to track and identify passports. Where is it? The passport number is usually printed on the inside cover of the passport, next to the holder’s name and date of birth.

Where Is My Passport Number Located?

Your passport number is located on the data page of your passport, underneath your photo. The data page is usually on the right-hand side of the passport when you open it. If you’re having trouble finding your passport number, you can also look at the machine-readable zone (MRZ) on your passport. The MRZ is the two-line code at the bottom of the data page that can be read by machines. Your passport number is located above the MRZ on the data page.

What Are The Documents Required For Name Change In Passport?

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These are the documents you will require to change your name on the passport:

• You will have to fill the Form DS-11. 
• Your most recent U.S. passport.
• Your original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. 
• One color passport photo. 

What Is The Process For Changing Your Name On The Passport?

The process of changing your name on the passport has been described below for various circumstances in a tabular format:

Let’s have a look at each of these circumstances and the requirements for name change in detail below:

How To Change Your Name If Your Passport is Less Than a Year Old?

If you have recently gotten married or had a name change, and your passport is still valid for at least another year. You can simply submit a request to the U.S. Department of State with your original passport, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, or a court order.

You would also require two color photographs. The photos must be 2-by-2 inches in size, and they cannot be polaroid pictures. 

Plus, you will have to fill out Form DS-11, and attach the documents with it. 

You will also need to include a check or money order for the processing fee, which is $60. You can find the most up-to-date fee information on the Department of State’s website.

Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you will need to mail them to the address below:

U.S. Department of State

Passport Services

P.O. Box 90155

Philadelphia, PA 19190-0155

Be sure to include a daytime phone number and email address so the Department of State can reach you if there are any questions about your request.

You should receive your new passport in the mail within 4 to 6 weeks. If you need it sooner than that, you can request expedited service for an additional fee of $60.

How To Change Your Name If Your Passport is More Than A Year Old?

If your passport is more than a year old, you’ll need to renew it before you can make any changes. You can do this by mail or in person. When you renew by mail, include a completed form, a photocopy of your passport’s data page, and any supporting documents. 

Mail the application to the address listed on the form along with the proper fee.

If you renew in person, make an appointment at a passport acceptance facility or regional agency. Bring your most recent passport, the completed form, a photocopy of your passport’s data page, and any supporting documents. You’ll also need to pay the renewal fee.

Once your new passport is issued, it will reflect your new name.

How To Change Name On The Passport After Getting Married?

If you’ve recently gotten married and need to change your name on your passport, you’ll either request a new passport (if your passport is less than a year old) along with supporting documents or renew and then request a name change if your passport is older than a year.

Be sure to include a copy of your marriage certificate or other documentation verifying the change when you submit your form. If your passport was issued less than a year ago, there is no fee for this service. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay the passport renewal fee.

How To Change Your Name On The Passport Number After Getting Divorced?

If you’ve recently gotten divorced, you’ll need to request a new passport with supporting documents if your passport is less than a year old or renew and then request a new passport if your passport is more than a year old.

Be sure to include a copy of your divorce decree or other documentation verifying the change when you submit your form. If your passport was issued less than a year ago, there is no fee for this service. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay the passport renewal fee.

How To Change Name On The Passport After A Legal Name Change?

If you’ve recently changed your name for any other reason, you’ll have to request (renew if your passport is a year old or more) a new passport with supporting documents. Be sure to include a copy of your court order or other documentation supporting the name change.

The documents should be verifying the change when you submit your form. If your passport was issued less than a year ago, there is no fee for this service. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay the passport renewal fee.

Changing your name on your passport is a simple process, regardless of the reason for the change. Be sure to include all the necessary documentation and fees, and you’ll have your new passport after approval from the authorities.

How Much Does It Cost To Change Your Name On Your Passport?

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The price of the name change on the passport depends on the type of passport. For a standard passport, the fee is $110. In the case of a passport card, the fee is $30. For an expedited passport, the fee is $170. There is also a $35 execution fee for all passport services.

Can I Update My Name On My Passport Online?

No, you cannot update your name on your passport online. You will need to submit a new application with proof of your name change. And, you will need to mail in your application. You cannot update your name on an existing passport.

Can You Travel With Your Old Passport After Your Name Change?

Yes, you can travel with your old passport after your name change. You will need to present both your old and new passports to the immigration officer at the port of entry. The officer will then update the information in their system and stamp your new passport. 

If you are traveling within the United States, you do not need to update your passport. However, if you are traveling internationally, you will need to update your passport and visa (if applicable).

Can You Have One US Passport And One Other Passport With Different Names?

It is possible to have one US passport and one other passport with different names. However, it is important to note that having two passports with different names can cause confusion when traveling. It is advisable to travel with both passports when using different names. 

When traveling on business or for pleasure, always carry your US passport as well as your other passport. Showing both passports at the same time will help to avoid any misunderstandings. 

If you are questioned about your identity, simply explain that you have two passports with different names. 

It is also a good idea to keep a copy of your birth certificate or other identification handy in case you are asked for proof of your identity. 

Having two passports with different names is not illegal, but it can be confusing. If you have any questions, be sure to ask a passport agent or an immigration lawyer. 

They will be able to help you sort out any confusion and make sure that you are following the proper procedures. 

Traveling with two passports can be done, but it is important to understand the procedures before you travel. This way, you can avoid any problems or confusion.

How Does A New Passport Number Affect Visas?

If you’re planning to travel and need a visa, it’s important to know how a new passport number change can affect your application. Depending on the country you’re visiting, the requirements for getting a visa can vary. You may need to update your visa information with your new passport number.

In order to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip, here’s what you need to know about how a new passport number can affect visas.

When applying for a visa, one of the first things you’ll need to do is provide your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, and passport number. 

Your passport number is used by the consulate or embassy to verify your identity and confirm that you are eligible for a visa. 

If your passport number changes, you’ll need to update this information on your visa application.

In most cases, updating your passport number on your visa application is a simple process. However, there are some instances where a new passport number can affect your visa status. 

For example, if you’re applying for a visa to enter the United States, your new passport number will be entered into the US-VISIT system. 

This system is used to track travelers who enter the United States and is part of Homeland Security’s efforts to strengthen border security.

What To Do When you Are Traveling To Another Country?

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If you’re applying for a visa to travel to another country, it’s important to check with that country’s consulate or embassy to find out if they require an updated passport number on your application. 

Each country has its own specific requirements for visas, so it’s important to be familiar with the process before you apply.

Overall, a new passport number shouldn’t affect your ability to get a visa. 

However, it’s always best to check with the consulate or embassy of the country you’re planning to visit to find out if they have any special requirements when it comes to updating your passport information on your visa application. 

By doing this, you can avoid any potential delays or problems that could occur during your trip.

Wrapping Up!

If you have a valid passport with your old name and need to travel internationally after changing your name, you will need to get a new passport with your updated information.  

So in short, technically the passport number change can happen when you change your name but practically speaking you will need to apply for a passport again to reflect your updated legal name. The new passport will definitely have a new passport number. 

So, there you have it. Hopefully, you learned everything you were looking for in this blog. If you still have any doubt, let us know in the comments section. 

FAQs

How Long Does It Take To Get A Passport With My New Name?

It usually takes 4-6 weeks to receive a passport with your new name. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the country you are applying from and the time of year. If you need your passport sooner, you can pay an additional fee for expedited service. 

With expedited service, you should receive your passport within 2-3 weeks.

What Should You Do If You Need To Update Your Passport Number?

If you need to update your passport number, you will need to contact the issuing authority to request a new passport. You may also need to update your visa if you have one. The issuing authority will be able to provide you with the necessary forms and instructions.

How Can You Find Out What Your Passport Number Is If You Don’t Remember It Or Have Lost It?

If you don’t remember your passport number or have lost it, you can find it on your passport. The passport number is usually printed on the inside cover of the passport, next to the holder’s name and date of birth. 

If you can’t find it there, you can also look at the data page of your passport, which has all of your personal information including your passport number.

Why Do You Need A Passport Number For International Travel?

The passport number is a unique identifier that is assigned to each passport. It is used by authorities to track and identify passports. The passport number is also required for international travel. When you travel internationally, you will need to present your passport at border control. 

The passport number will be used to check your identity and confirm that you are the holder of the passport.

Can You Travel Internationally If Your Passport Number Doesn’t Match The Name On Your Ticket Or Visa Application Form?

No, you cannot. If the name on your travel documents does not match the name on your passport, you will not be able to travel internationally. The passport number is used to confirm your identity and check that you are the holder of the passport. 

If the name on your documents does not match the name on your passport, you will not be able to board a flight or cross a border.