Passport Change of Name Costs: What You Need to Know
Changing your name on your passport can be a necessary step for many individuals, whether due to marriage, divorce, or personal preference. However, the process of updating your name on official documents like a passport can be confusing and costly. In this article, we will break down the costs associated with changing your name on your passport and provide you with all the information you need to navigate this process smoothly.
The cost of changing your name on your passport will vary depending on several factors. The most significant factor that will impact the cost is whether you are eligible to apply for a name change through the standard passport renewal process or if you need to apply for a new passport.
If you are eligible for a standard passport renewal and are simply changing your name, the cost will be the same as a regular passport renewal. Currently, the fee for a standard adult passport renewal is $110. For minors under the age of 16, the cost is $80. These fees cover the processing of your application and the issuance of a new passport with your updated name.
However, if you need to apply for a new passport with your updated name, the costs will be higher. As of now, the fee for an adult passport application is $145, while minors under the age of 16 will be charged $115. These fees include the processing of your application, the issuance of a new passport with your updated name, and the additional administrative costs associated with issuing a new passport.
In addition to the standard processing fees, there may be additional costs associated with changing your name on your passport. These costs can include fees for updating your passport photo, expedited processing fees, and shipping costs if you choose to have your new passport delivered to you.
If you are changing your name on your passport due to marriage or divorce, you will also need to submit additional documentation along with your application. For marriage-related name changes, you will need to provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate. For divorce-related name changes, you will need to provide a certified copy of your divorce decree. These documents may incur additional costs, depending on where and how you obtain them.
It is important to note that the fees associated with changing your name on your passport are subject to change and may vary depending on the method of application, processing times, and any additional services requested. Therefore, it is crucial to check the most up-to-date fee schedule on the official website of the passport issuing authority before submitting your application.
If you are considering changing your name on your passport, here are some tips to help you navigate the process smoothly and minimize costs:
1. Determine if you are eligible for a standard passport renewal or if you need to apply for a new passport with your updated name. This will help you understand the fees associated with your name change.
2. Gather all necessary documentation, such as your current passport, proof of name change (marriage certificate or divorce decree), and any additional supporting documents required for your application.
3. Check the current fee schedule on the official passport issuing authority’s website to ensure you are aware of the most up-to-date costs associated with changing your name on your passport.
4. Consider any additional services you may need, such as expedited processing or passport photo updates, and factor these costs into your budget.
5. Submit your application in a timely manner and follow the instructions provided by the passport issuing authority to ensure a smooth and efficient processing of your name change request.
By following these tips and being aware of the costs associated with changing your name on your passport, you can navigate the process with ease and ensure that your official documents reflect your updated name accurately. Remember that while the costs of changing your name on your passport may seem daunting, it is an essential step in ensuring that your identification documents are up to date and reflect your true identity.
