New Passport Rules: Add Spouse Name In Passport Without Marriage Certificate | Here’s How

How To Add Spouse Name In Passport: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has introduced a new provision allowing applicants to include their spouse’s name on their passport without submitting a marriage certificate. The move is aimed at easing passport application hurdles and will be a relief to many applicants who previously struggled due to a lack of formal documentation.

What’s New: Introduction of Annexure J

The Annexure J is a newly introduced Joint Photo Declaration that can now be used as a valid alternative to the traditional marriage certificate. This document, signed by both the husband and wife, confirms their marital status and includes essential identification details.

This change is especially beneficial for regions where marriage registration is not routinely practiced. For instance, while marriages in Maharashtra are generally registered by default, many northern states do not enforce such regulations, leaving couples without the necessary documents for passport applications.

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What Is Annexure J

Annexure J is a self-declared affidavit that acts as a joint declaration by a married couple. It must include:

1. A joint photograph of the couple (self-attested)

2. Full names and addresses of both spouses

3. Marital status declaration

4. Signatures of both parties, with place and date

5. Date of birth of both individuals

6. Valid ID proofs: Aadhaar number, and either Voter ID or Passport number (if available)

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This form serves as proof of marriage in lieu of a marriage certificate, helping many applicants, especially women, to easily update their passports with their spouse’s full name.