Last Updated on September 5, 2025 by Tracey Roberts
If you are applying for or renewing a British passport, you need to make sure that you comply with the one-name policy for British passport applications. Understand the rules, who they affect, and how to prevent delays in your UK passport process. The UK Passport Office follows a strict one name policy. This means that your British passport must be in the same name as your foreign passport or any other official documents. For expats who hold dual citizenship, this rule often creates confusion and delays. At U.K.ABROAD, we help you navigate these rules smoothly so your application is not rejected or held up.
Quick Overview
The one-name policy requires your British passport and foreign passport to show the same name. If they do not, you will need to provide official evidence of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, death certificate of a spouse, or a deed poll. Without this, your application is likely to be delayed or even refused.
Key Takeaways
- Your British passport must be in the same name as your foreign passport, and other official documents.
- If your names do not match, you will need official documents that explain the difference.
- Common documents include marriage certificates, divorce papers, or deed polls.
- Many applications are delayed because of missing proof or incorrect paperwork.
- U.K.ABROAD checks your documents in advance and ensures you submit the right evidence so your passport is approved quickly.
FAQs – One-Name Policy for British Passport Applications
Why does the UK enforce the one-name policy?
It is a security measure. Having the same name across passports prevents confusion at borders and reduces the risk of fraud.
What if my foreign passport is in my maiden name and my British one is in my married name?
You will need to provide your marriage certificate to show the link between the two names. If you reverted back to your maiden name, then proof such as divorce papers or a death certificate of your spouse is required, as well as evidence that you use your maiden name for all purposes.
Is surname mandatory in passport for the UK?
Yes, you must have a surname on a UK passport.
What is the longest name you can have for a British passport?
Up to 30 characters for the surname and 30 characters for the first/middle names combined.
Can I apply for a passport without a middle name?
Yes, middle names are optional if they are not part of your legal name on official documents.
How does U.K.ABROAD help?
We guide you step by step, review your documents, and make sure your application is compliant before you submit it. This prevents costly delays and saves you from back-and-forth requests from HMPO.
The Full Guide to the One Name Policy
The one-name policy is often an unexpected hurdle for dual nationals or expats living abroad. For example, if your Brazilian passport is in your maiden name but your British passport is in your married name, HMPO will expect to see your marriage certificate. If you cannot provide it, your application will not move forward.
Statistics show that incorrect or incomplete applications are the number one reason for passport delays. According to official data, over 10 percent of UK passport applications each year face delays because of missing or incorrect documents. The one-name policy is a key factor in this.
At U.K.ABROAD, we make sure your paperwork is right before you apply. We check that your names match across passports and documents, and where there are differences, we tell you exactly what evidence is needed. For many of our clients, this saves weeks of frustration and ensures their passport arrives on time.
“Customers may send us a passport application in a name that does not match their foreign documents. Unless it meets one of our exceptions, we expect customers to change the name on their foreign document, so it matches the name on their passport application, before they send their application to us.” – gov.uk
A Practical Checklist
If your names don’t match, here’s a simple way to think about it:
- Look at the name on your foreign passport.
- Compare it to the name you want on your British passport.
- If they’re different, you’ll need to show the connection between them.
- That connection involves official paperwork.
What counts as acceptable proof can depend on your situation, and many applications get stuck because people assume the wrong document will do. At U.K.ABROAD, we know exactly what the Passport Office will accept, so you don’t risk delays or rejection.
Final Thoughts
The one name policy can feel strict, but it is straightforward once you know what is required. If your British passport and foreign passport do not match, you must provide the right supporting documents. With U.K.ABROAD, you do not need to worry about what to send or how to explain a name change. We take care of it for you so your application is smooth, compliant, and stress free.
Ready to renew or apply? Contact U.K.ABROAD today and let us handle the details while you focus on planning your next trip.
“My consultant Brittany was patient and understanding. Problem was my passport had expired long ago. She advised and helped and advised me the requirements of the HMPO. It was more than I expected, but she helped me all the way and answered emails immediately. I thank her. Thank you. Peter Arnold Ritty via Google Reviews.”
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