New Indian Passport Rule: Annexure J Simplifies Spouse Name Inclusion for UAE Expats
The Indian Consulate in Dubai has confirmed a major procedural relief for Indian expats in the UAE, allowing the inclusion of a spouse’s name in their passport without requiring a registered marriage certificate. The new rule, implemented under the directive of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, permits the use of Annexure J, a joint self-declaration affidavit, to update marital status on passports.
This update is a significant move to help couples who face hurdles in adding a spouse’s name due to the absence of formal marriage registration.
What is Annexure J?
Annexure J serves as a joint declaration form affirming marital status. It must be signed by both spouses and include:
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A recent self-attested joint photograph
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Names and addresses of both applicants
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Aadhaar, voter ID, and/or passport numbers of both spouses
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Solemn affirmation of the information’s authenticity
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A disclaimer placing legal responsibility solely on the applicant in case of disputes
The Indian Consulate has been accepting Annexure J in place of a marriage certificate since the policy’s notification. This is particularly helpful for couples married through traditional or community ceremonies not legally registered.
Who Can Use Annexure J?
Indian expats in the UAE applying for passport reissue or renewal (excluding newborns) can use Annexure J if they:
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Do not have a registered marriage certificate
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Want to add a spouse’s name to their passport
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Women wish to change their surname post-marriage (partial change only)
Note: A full name change still requires the standard name change process.
Submission Process in UAE
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Both spouses must personally visit the Indian Consulate in Dubai.
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They must sign Annexure J in front of the consular official.
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The signed form must be submitted along with the passport renewal application at a BLS International service centre.
Marriage Registration in UAE
The Consulate continues to provide marriage registration services under India’s Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, for couples where at least one partner is an Indian citizen with a UAE residence visa.
However, marriages involving Muslim couples must be registered through UAE Sharia courts, not at the Consulate.
Couples who are married in India must register their marriage with the appropriate authorities in India.
