Step by Step Guide: Changing Your Passport Name in Bangladesh
1. Obtain the Required Documents
Before applying for a passport name change, you need to gather the necessary documents. These typically include your current passport, National Identity Card (NID), birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and any legal document supporting your name change, such as an affidavit or gazette notification. Ensure that you make copies of all these documents as they will be required during the submission process.
2. Fill Out the Passport Application Form
You must fill out the passport application form correctly to initiate the name change process. You can either complete the form online through the Department of Immigration and Passports’ website or collect a physical copy from their designated centers. Ensure you provide accurate information, especially the details relating to your name, as this will affect the rest of the process.
3. Submit a Name Change Affidavit
An affidavit that officially supports your name change is mandatory in Bangladesh for updating your passport. You will need to prepare a legal affidavit stating the reason for the name change, which must be attested by a notary public or magistrate. This document will serve as a formal declaration supporting your request for the name change.
4. Pay the Necessary Fees
Depending on the urgency of your request, there are different fee structures for Bangladeshi passport applications. You can pay the fees at designated banks or through mobile banking services. Make sure to keep the payment receipt safely as it will be required when submitting your application.
5. Visit the Passport Office
Once you have all the necessary documents and have filled out the passport application form, you should visit your nearest Passport and Immigration Office. Submit all the documents there, including the affidavits, existing passport, NID, and receipts. You’ll also be asked to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs.
6. Verification and Approval Process
After submission, a verification process will follow. The authorities may verify your documents with concerned institutions, such as the Election Commission (for NID verification) or City Corporation/Magistrate’s office (for affidavit validation). Depending on the thoroughness of the investigation, this process may take some time.
7. Collect the Updated Passport
Once your application is processed and approved, you will be notified when your new passport is ready for collection. You will need to visit the passport office again to receive your updated passport with the new name. Be sure to bring your previous passport and the receipt of the application fee when collecting the new document.
Legal Requirements for Passport Name Change in Bangladesh Explained
Proof of Identity
To change your name on a Bangladeshi passport, you must first provide valid proof of identity. This typically includes documents like your National Identity Card (NID), birth certificate, or a previous passport. These documents are necessary to verify your existing identity before any changes can be made. Authorities will cross-check the information provided to ensure its accuracy.
Legal Documentation Supporting the Name Change
In Bangladesh, a legal document that validates your name change is mandatory. This usually comes in the form of a name change affidavit prepared by a licensed attorney and notarized by a public notary or magistrate. Alternatively, a published gazette notification affirming the new name can also serve as proof. Ensure the affidavit or gazette includes sufficient details about the reason and basis for your name change.
Marriage Certificate (If Applicable)
If your name change is due to marriage, you must submit an official marriage certificate issued by an authorized government entity. This certificate serves as proof for those who wish to change their surname or add a spouse’s last name to reflect their marital status. The authorities will need this document to validate your request for a name update due to marriage.
Divorce Decree or Court Orders (If Applicable)
In cases where a name change is requested due to a divorce or other legal proceeding, you must present a certified copy of the court order, decree, or judgment indicating the dissolution of marriage and any name restoration instructions. This formal documentation allows passport authorities to proceed with the name change in compliance with judicial orders.
No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Government Employees
Government employees in Bangladesh requesting a name change are required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their respective employers. This certifies that the employer has no issues with the employee updating their personal records, including their passport data. Failure to provide an NOC could lead to delays or rejection of the application.
Fees and Penalties for Incomplete or Incorrect Information
Providing incomplete or incorrect information during the passport name change process can lead to penalties or the rejection of your application. Falsifying information may even result in legal action. Make sure your submitted documents are accurate and up-to-date, as any discrepancies could prolong the approval process or lead to additional fees.
Age and Special Considerations for Minors
For minors, any change in passport name often requires parental or guardian consent. Legal guardians must submit supporting documents, such as a valid NID, birth certificate, and, if applicable, legal custody papers. The relevant parent or guardian should also accompany the minor to the passport office when submitting the application for a name change.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Updating Passport Name in Bangladesh
1. Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
One of the most common mistakes is failing to submit all the necessary documents or providing incorrect information. Forgetting essential paperwork—such as the affidavit for a name change, marriage/divorce certificates, or National Identity Card (NID)—can result in delays or even the outright rejection of your application. Always double-check that the documentation is accurate and complete before submission.
2. Neglecting to Attest Legal Documents
In Bangladesh, legal documents like a name change affidavit or proof of marriage/divorce must be attested by a notary public or magistrate. Failing to get these documents properly attested is another frequent error that could invalidate your application. Make sure to have all necessary legal documents notarized to avoid complications later on in the process.
3. Providing Inconsistent Information Across Documents
Inconsistent information across different documents, such as mismatching names between your birth certificate, NID, and passport, can complicate the name change process. Authorities will verify that all submitted documents reflect the same identity details. Ensure uniformity to prevent any unnecessary delays.
4. Not Obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if You’re a Government Employee
Government employees applying for a passport name change must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. Failing to obtain this document beforehand is a significant oversight that will likely cause delays in processing your application. Always check whether an NOC is required based on your employment status.
5. Skipping the Fee Payment Process
Some applicants forget to pay the required fees or mistakenly assume that payment will be collected at a later stage. This can delay the processing of your application. The fees should be paid at designated banks or through approved mobile banking services, and you must keep the payment receipt handy to submit along with your documents.
6. Failing to Update Other ID Documents First
Your passport name should match other key identification documents, such as your NID or driver’s license. Many applicants fail to update these other documents first, which can create discrepancies during the verification process, causing delays. It’s advisable to update your NID or any other government-issued ID before submitting a passport name change application.
7. Ignoring the Importance of Biometric Data Submission
Biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, are mandatory when updating details on your Bangladeshi passport. Some applicants overlook this step or assume previous biometric data will suffice. Remember, you will need to provide fresh biometric information when you visit the passport office to complete your application.
Document Checklist for Passport Name Change Process in Bangladesh
Current Passport
Your current, valid passport is a mandatory requirement when applying for a name change. This document will serve as the primary reference for updating the new information. Make sure your passport is not expired or damaged; otherwise, you may need to apply for a replacement before proceeding with the name change.
National Identity Card (NID)
A valid National Identity Card (NID) is essential as it verifies your current identity. Ensure that the information on your NID is up-to-date and consistent with other documents. In cases where the name change has already been applied to the NID, having an updated card can expedite the passport name change process.
Birth Certificate
Your birth certificate is another key document required to confirm your original name and date of birth. The details on this document must match the information on your NID and current passport. Any discrepancies between these documents could cause delays or lead to the application being rejected.
Legal Affidavit or Gazette Notification
A legal affidavit confirming your name change, notarized by a public notary or magistrate, is crucial to the process. This affidavit serves as legal proof of the name change and must include details about the reason for the change. Alternatively, if you have published a gazette notification regarding your name change, that document can also be submitted as proof.
Marriage Certificate (If Applicable)
If the name change is due to marriage, an official marriage certificate issued by a recognized government authority is required. The certificate should clearly state your previous and new surnames if you’re changing your last name to reflect marital status.
Divorce Decree or Court Order (If Applicable)
In cases where the name change request is due to divorce, you must provide certified copies of the court decree or judgment that outlines any instructions regarding the restoration of a previous name. This is necessary for those going back to their maiden names or removing a spouse’s surname after a divorce.
No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Government Employees (If Applicable)
Government employees will need to furnish a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. This document confirms that your employer does not object to the name change request and allows you to proceed with the passport update without any employment-related complications.
Payment Receipts
Receipts confirming the payment of applicable passport name change fees must also be included in your submission packet. These payments can typically be made at designated banks or via mobile banking services approved by the Department of Immigration and Passports. Keep the receipt safe as it will be required during document submission.
Biometric Data Submission Acknowledgment
When visiting the passport office, you will need to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs. You may receive a copy of the acknowledgment after submission, and it’s important to keep this for future reference during the processing of your application.
Updated Identification Documents (Optional but Recommendable)
It’s advisable to update other identification documents—such as your driver’s license, bank cards, or educational certificates—before applying for a name change on your passport. Having updated IDs can help ensure consistency across all your records and avoid complications during the verification process.
Timeline and Fees: Complete Guide to Passport Name Change in Bangladesh
Standard Processing Time for Name Change
The usual processing time for a passport name change in Bangladesh can vary depending on several factors, including the accuracy of your submitted documents and the workload of the Department of Immigration and Passports. For standard applications, it takes approximately two to four weeks from the date of successful submission. However, this timeline can extend if additional verification or corrections are required.
Urgent Processing Options and Timeline
If you require a quicker turnaround, you can opt for the “Express” or “Urgent” services that are available under the Bangladeshi passport issuing system. Typically, the urgent service promises to deliver the updated passport within seven business days. This option is advisable if you have an impending travel plan or other time-sensitive needs but be prepared to pay higher fees for this expedited processing.
Breakdown of Passport Name Change Fees
The cost of changing the name on your passport in Bangladesh depends on the type of service you choose—regular or urgent. As of 2023, the fees for a standard service are BDT 3450 for an ordinary passport, while the urgent service costs around BDT 6900. Keep in mind that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest pricing details on the Department of Immigration and Passports’ official website.
Additional Charges for Corrections and Amendments
If there are any errors in your submitted application or supporting documents, making corrections could incur additional charges. Generally, the cost for a re-submission or correction starts at BDT 500, depending on the nature of the issue. Always ensure that your documents are accurate and fully compliant with the guidelines to avoid incurring these additional fees.
Bank Payment and Mobile Banking Options
Once you’ve chosen the service level, you can make the payment via designated banks such as Sonali Bank and Agrani Bank. The Department of Immigration and Passports also allows mobile banking payments through services like bKash and Rocket for added convenience. Be sure to keep your payment receipt, as it will be required during the application submission process.
Hidden Costs to Consider
In addition to the official passport fees, there may be other incidental expenses involved in the name change process. These can include the cost of preparing a legal affidavit (typically ranging from BDT 500 to BDT 2000), notarizing documents, and obtaining certified copies of marriage or divorce certificates. If your documents are not up to date, additional costs for updating your NID or other identification may apply.
Fee Refund Policies
It’s important to note that passport name change fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is rejected due to incorrect or incomplete documentation. Therefore, it’s crucial to double-check all your forms and proofs before submission. Some exceptional cases might qualify for partial refunds, but this is at the sole discretion of the Department of Immigration and Passports.
