In a significant policy shift aimed at easing passport application hurdles, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has introduced a new provision allowing applicants to include their spouse’s name on their passport without submitting a marriage certificate. This move comes as a relief to many applicants who previously struggled due to a lack of formal documentation.
What’s New: Introduction of Annexure J
The Annexure J is a newly introduced Joint Photo Declaration that can now be used as a valid alternative to the traditional marriage certificate. This document, signed by both the husband and wife, confirms their marital status and includes essential identification details.
This change is especially beneficial for regions where marriage registration is not routinely practiced. For instance, while marriages in Maharashtra are generally registered by default, many northern states do not enforce such regulations, leaving couples without the necessary documents for passport applications.
What is Annexure J?
Annexure J is a self-declared affidavit that acts as a joint declaration by a married couple. It must include:
1. A joint photograph of the couple (self-attested)
2. Full names and addresses of both spouses
3. Marital status declaration
4. Signatures of both parties, with place and date
5. Date of birth of both individuals
6. Valid ID proofs: Aadhaar number, and either Voter ID or Passport number (if available)
This form serves as proof of marriage in lieu of a marriage certificate, helping many applicants, especially women, to easily update their passports with their spouse’s full name.
When is a Marriage Certificate Still Required?
While Annexure J simplifies the process for adding a spouse's name, certain scenarios still mandate official documentation:
- To remove a spouse’s name post-divorce or after the spouse’s death
- To change a spouse’s name on the passport
- Divorce decree
- Death certificate of the spouse
- Re-marriage certificate
In an earlier update, the MEA also made it mandatory to submit a birth certificate for all passport applicants born on or after October 1, 2023. The birth certificate must be issued under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 by an authorized authority like a municipal corporation.
For applicants born before October 1, 2023, alternative documents like a School Leaving Certificate, PAN Card, Driving Licence, or other valid government-issued IDs will still be accepted.
With this progressive move, the Indian government aims to simplify the passport application process and ensure inclusivity. The introduction of Annexure J provides flexibility and addresses regional disparities in documentation practices across the country. It's a significant win for couples navigating paperwork, especially ahead of travel plans or international moves.
(Disclaimer: This article is based on various media reports and publicly available information. It has not been independently verified by Moneycontrol. Readers are advised to refer to official government sources for confirmation.)
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