Yahoo News The passport name change rules that could actually stop your holiday plans
As Brits gear up for their much-anticipated getaways abroad, there's one crucial detail that could throw a spanner in the works at the airport.
For those embarking on their first holiday since finalising a divorce, it's not just about soaking up the sun and sipping sangria, a significant alteration to their passport and ID could spell trouble. Legal expert Molly Thompson, who focuses on name changes, warns newly divorced individuals to double-check all travel documents before departure.
The question of whether to revert to a maiden name can pose a particular challenge for those planning to travel internationally this summer. Molly emphasises, "If you are newly separated and have changed your legal name, you will need to pay close attention to the status of your passport to prevent any issues while travelling."
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Raydens Solicitor offers key advice for travellers that newly separated sunseekers should follow this summer. They include:
Ensuring your passport and boarding pass reflect your new legal name
Airlines and immigration authorities demand that the name on your ticket is an exact match with your passport. It's vital to confirm this well before your trip, as any mismatch can lead to denied boarding or entry problems.
This is particularly pertinent if your holiday was booked prior to your name change.
Getting in touch with your travel insurance provider
If your name appears incorrect on your insurance documents, or if you've changed your name and it's not reflected in these documents, we recommend contacting your provider to rectify this. Otherwise, you may not be covered.
Remember to carry your change of name deed with you. This will provide the necessary proof of identity after changing your name.
Wondering how to change your surname after a divorce?
For those wishing to revert to their original name, most record-holders will accept your marriage certificate and final order as documentary evidence.
To change your surname on your passport back to your previous one, you'll need to provide:.
Your birth certificate.
A statement signed by you stating that you have reverted to a previous surname (for example, your maiden name) 'for all purposes'.
A document showing you are using your new name (such as a payslip, or a letter from your local council).
Your marriage certificate.
If record-holders do not accept these documents as proof of a name change, or if you want to change your name to something other than your previous one, you can obtain a deed poll. This is a legal document allowing you to change any part of your name.
Molly Thompson advises: "There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to deciding whether to change your name after divorce. It is important to consider the different factors carefully, and ultimately do what feels right for you.
"For those who have changed their name or have a holiday booked in their married name and are currently going through the process of changing their legal name, ensure that you have performed all of the necessary checks to avoid disappointment at the airport."
