Navigating Passport Application When Names on Identifications Do Not Match

Introduction

If you have encountered issues with your passport application due to name discrepancies on your identification documents, you are not alone. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you resolve these issues and apply for a passport successfully. You will learn about the necessary steps, required documents, and important considerations to ensure a smooth process.

Understanding Name Discrepancies

The most common issue in passport applications is when names do not match across key identification documents such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, and the 10th class marksheet. Specifically, if your name on your Aadhaar card and PAN card is different from the name on your birth certificate, you must take immediate action to rectify this before applying for a passport.

What to Do When Names Do Not Match

Step 1: Rectify Name Inconsistencies

Firstly, address the name discrepancies by ensuring your name matches across all your identification documents. This includes:

Aadhaar Card: Update your Aadhaar card to reflect the correct name. PAN Card: Once your Aadhaar is updated, proceed to correct the name on your PAN card. 10th Class Marksheet: Ensure that your marksheet and any other important documents also display the correct name.

Step 2: Affidavit for Passport Application

While official documents like birth certificate cannot be altered, you may need to submit an affidavit to clarify the name discrepancies. The affidavit must:

Mention the correct name you should have. Identify the names that appear differently on your other documents (Aadhaar, PAN). Declare that both names are legitimate and used interchangeably.

The affidavit should also include your promise that if found to be fraudulent, you will face the consequences as per the laws.

Step 3: Verify Your Details with the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

Visit a PSK office, where you can clarify any doubts with MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) officials. Ensure that you bring all the necessary documents to support your case. You can also get legal assistance from a magistrate to attest your affidavit.

Steps to Follow

To summarize:

Update the name on your Aadhaar card. Follow up with the name correction on your PAN card. Prepare an affidavit stating the discrepancies in names. Visit a PSK office and present all documents.

While this process can be slightly more cumbersome, it is necessary to ensure a successful passport application.

Conclusion

Applying for a passport with name discrepancies across your identification documents can be challenging but not impossible. By taking the proper steps and ensuring all necessary documents are updated and corrected, you can resolve the issue and apply for your passport without further delay. Remember, it's crucial to act promptly to avoid any unnecessary delays or rejections in the application process.