Changing your name
If you’re going to change your name to reflect your marriage or civil partnership, you can get a new passport with your new name before or after the ceremony.
When travelling, the name on your booking and travel information must match the name on your passport.
What name do I use to sign the register at my ceremony if I’m going to change my name?
Sign using your usual signature or mark, for the name you are using on the day of your ceremony. You’ll then need to use the legal certificates, once they have been received as proof of your marriage/civil partnership, to prove that you have the legal right to take or combine your surname with your partner’s surname.
Getting a new passport
Apply for a passport in your new name before the ceremony
Planning your honeymoon or looking forward to starting married life with a new surname? If you’re changing your name after your ceremony, you can apply for a passport in your new name up to three months before your ceremony date.
A simple way to get ahead
For £20, our Ceremonies Team can complete the official Passports for Newly Weds and Civil Partners (PD2) form with you, which allows you to apply for a passport in your new name before your ceremony. It’s one less thing to organise afterwards, leaving you more time to enjoy the celebrations.
We recommend arranging this after you have attended your notice appointment.
What you need to do
Before sending your PD2 form to us or bringing it into one of our offices, you must complete the sections of the form that are for you to fill in.
Download the ‘Passports for newlyweds and civil partners’ form.
Once you have completed your part of the form:
- If you would like our Ceremonies Team to sign the form, send the completed form to us with your supporting documents and a self-addressed envelope, or contact our Ceremonies Booking Team if you would prefer to visit one of our offices.
- If your form is being signed by a religious minister, you must arrange for the minister to sign it before sending or bringing the form to us.
Please do not send or bring an incomplete form to us, as this may delay your application.
Important information about post-dated passports
Your current passport will be cancelled and your new passport will be post-dated, meaning it will only become valid on the date of your ceremony. You won’t be able to use your new passport before then, so it’s important to consider this when making travel plans.
Some countries will not issue visas for post-dated passports, so we recommend checking with the relevant embassy or consulate before booking travel or applying for a visa.
Ready for the next chapter
Whether you’re jetting off on honeymoon or simply excited to begin the next chapter together, our team is here to help you get everything in place ahead of your special day.
To find out more or arrange a visit to one of our offices with your completed PD2 form, please contact our Ceremony Booking Team.
Getting a new passport after the ceremony
Send your marriage or civil partnership certificate when you apply for a passport in your new name, including for double-barrelled surnames.
For further information, refer to the gov.uk guide on changing your name on your passport.