Indian Passport Guide
Can you add your spouse's name without a marriage certificate?
After marriage, some passport holders may want to add their husband's or wife's name to their existing Indian passport. This may come up when applying for passport re-issue, even if the spouse's name was not included in the earlier passport.
But what if you do not have a marriage certificate? The Passport Seva document guidance for adding a spouse's name includes a joint photo declaration signed by both husband and wife, known as Annexure J, as an alternative document in the applicable case.
This does not mean Annexure J is accepted for every passport application or every type of change. Always check the document requirements applicable to your particular case.
What is Annexure J?
Annexure J is officially titled "Joint Declaration in lieu of Marriage Certificate". It is a prescribed declaration made jointly by the husband and wife for the relevant passport application purpose.
The declaration includes details of both spouses and confirms their marital status and that they are living together. It also requires a recent joint photograph and the signatures of both husband and wife, as specified in the official form.
View Official Annexure J Form →What does Annexure J contain?
Applicants should refer to the prescribed official form. The declaration generally includes the following:
How to apply for passport re-issue to add spouse name
If you already hold an Indian passport and want to add your spouse's name, the following is a general outline of the re-issue application process.
1. Visit the official Passport Seva portal
Register or log in to the official Passport Seva website.
2. Select the re-issue application
Choose the Re-issue of Passport option for your existing passport.
3. Complete the application
Fill in the required personal details and update the spouse information wherever applicable.
4. Check the document requirements
Use the official Document Advisor to confirm whether a marriage certificate or Annexure J is applicable to your case.
5. Pay the fee and schedule an appointment
Follow the portal instructions for payment and appointment booking.
6. Visit the designated Passport Seva centre
Carry your existing passport, original supporting documents and the required self-attested copies.
7. Complete the verification process
Follow the instructions given by the Passport Seva officials. Additional documents or verification may be required.
Important points to remember
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Not sure how to proceed with adding your spouse's name or which documents may be required? Serveez can assist with application guidance and the online application process.
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For the latest requirements and prescribed documents, refer to the official Government of India Passport Seva resources: