Your passport is one of the most vital identity documents, not just for international travel, but also for banking, visa applications, employment verification, and more. A minor spelling mistake in your father’s name, mother’s name, or other personal details can cause serious delays or rejections in official procedures.
This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to help you correct spelling mistakes in your passport, ensuring that your identity records remain consistent and legally valid.
What Can Be Corrected Under Spelling Errors?
The following types of spelling errors can be corrected:
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Father’s name (e.g., “Ramesh” instead of “Remeesh”)
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Mother’s name
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Spouse’s name
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Your own full name (if minor change in spelling)
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Surname mix-ups
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Minor typographical errors in place of birth or address
These are considered “Changes in Existing Personal Particulars”, and require a re-issue of passport.
Who Can Apply for Correction of Spelling Errors?
Any passport holder—minor or adult—who has detected a clerical or spelling mistake in their current passport may apply.
Corrections are possible only if:
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You have valid proof supporting the correct spelling
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The name is not being completely changed, but only corrected
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The request is not fraudulent or meant to mislead
Documents Required for Fixing Spelling Mistakes in Passport
You’ll need to submit the following documents:
1. Current Passport
2. Proof of Correct Name
Depending on whose name is being corrected:
3. Annexure ‘E’
Step-by-Step Process to Correct Spelling Errors in Passport
Step 1: Visit Passport Seva Portal
Go to the official site: www.passportindia.gov.in
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Register or log in
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Click on “Apply for Re-issue of Passport”
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Choose: “Change in Existing Personal Particulars”
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Select the relevant option (e.g., father’s name, mother’s name, etc.)
Step 2: Fill in the Online Application
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Fill all fields carefully with correct spellings
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Double-check your entries, especially for the name you are correcting
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Save and submit the form
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Note the Application Reference Number (ARN)
Step 3: Pay Fee and Book Appointment
Step 4: Visit the PSK with Documents
Carry:
At the PSK:
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Your details will be verified
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Biometrics may be taken again
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A new police verification may be ordered, depending on the correction type
Step 5: Police Verification (If Required)
If the corrected name causes a substantial identity change or there’s a lack of supporting ID, the passport officer may initiate police verification.
Ensure your address and references are accurate and reachable.
Step 6: Receive Your Updated Passport
Once your application is verified and approved, the new passport with corrected spelling will be printed and sent to your registered address.
Common Reasons for Spelling Mistakes in Passport
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Typing errors during manual or online form submission
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Incorrect information submitted in supporting documents
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Misalignment between old documents and passport data
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Transliteration mistakes (especially from regional languages)
How to Avoid Spelling Mistakes in Future
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Cross-check all names while filling out your application
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Always use official documents with standardized spelling
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Avoid using nicknames, initials, or local spellings in passport data
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Ensure all your documents (Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID) carry the same spellings
Cost & Processing Time for Name Corrections
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Fee: Standard passport re-issue fee (₹1,500 for 36 pages, ₹2,000 for 60 pages)
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Timeframe: 7–15 working days
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Police Verification: May extend processing by 7–10 days
Can You Use Tatkal for Spelling Correction?
No, Tatkal services are not available for changes in personal particulars, including name corrections. You must apply through the normal process only.
Important Legal Note
In cases where the correction leads to a major identity shift (e.g., different surname, change in parentage), authorities may reject the application unless you submit a court order or gazette notification.
Conclusion: One Mistake Can Block Your Journey
Even a small error in your passport—like a spelling mistake in your father’s or mother’s name—can result in complications during visa applications, background checks, or document verification. Take the time to correct it properly using the above step-by-step process.
We at SmotPro India Pvt. Ltd. are here to guide you through this process with dedicated support, professional documentation help, and quick appointments. With offices in Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Visakhapatnam, and across India, we offer complete passport and visa services that you can trust.
Our office- https://maps.app.goo.gl/HQWEmpNTEfL9mcjF7