Do I need a new passport if I change my name?

Yes — if you change your name and want to travel or prove identity under that name, you’ll need a new passport.

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

Passport fees can change. check the current Check the current fees on GOV.UK before you proceed.

Do I need a countersignature for a name change?

No — you generally do not need a countersignature if you’re changing your name or adding a title.

What documents do I need for a deed poll name change?

Send your deed poll (or statutory declaration / affidavit) plus proof of previous name changes (if applicable) and evidence you’re using your new name.

Does time left on my old passport carry over?

No — time left on your old passport is not added to the new one.

Can I book travel while I’m waiting?

Don’t. HM Passport Office warns not to book travel until you have a valid passport (your new passport will have a different number).

I have dual nationality — does my other passport name need to match?

Yes — if you have another passport, the name should match the name you want on your British passport.

Change your name on your UK passport

If you’ve changed your name by deed poll, you’ll need to apply for a new passport if you want your passport to match your new legal name. The name on your passport should match the name you use when you book travel.

What you’ll need

Your current UK passport (if you have one)
Your deed poll (or statutory declaration / affidavit)
Proof of any previous name changes (if you’ve changed your name before)
Evidence you’re using your new name (example: a payslip, driving license or a letter from your local council)
A suitable digital passport photo (you’ll upload this during the application)
A bank card to pay the fee (online application)

Step-by-step: updating your passport

Apply for a new passport (online is easiest).
Apply online in the name you want printed on the passport. Check the current passport fee on GOV.UK
Prepare your supporting documents.
You’ll typically send your deed poll plus:
- proof of any previous name changes, and
- evidence you’re using the new name.
Send documents when requested.
HM Passport Office will tell you what to send and where. Send exactly what they ask for (and keep copies/scans for your own records).
Wait for the new passport — don’t book travel until it arrives.
Your new passport will have a different passport number, and time left on your old passport won’t be added to the new one.
After it arrives:
Update anything that relies on passport ID (work checks, travel profiles, frequent flyer accounts). If you have visas in the old passport, check what the issuing country requires.

What if HM Passport Office refuses (or delays)?

This usually happens for boring reasons — not dramatic ones:

Not enough evidence that you’re actually using the new name (add another official letter, payslip, council letter, etc.).
Missing previous name-change proof (if you’ve changed name more than once).
Mismatch issues (travel booked in one name, documents in another) — fix the naming so it’s consistent.

If you need the passport urgently, use the official urgent options (Fast Track / Premium) and don’t book travel until you have the valid passport.