Guidelines for Filling Given Name and Surname on a Passport Application

When completing a passport application, it is crucial to accurately fill in the sections for your given name and surname. In this article, we will provide detailed guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly and without errors.

Understanding Given Name and Surname

Your given name is the name you were given by your parents or guardians, and it can include first names, middle names, or initials. Your surname is the family name that is passed down from your parents and, typically, grandparents. It is the last name that all members of your family share.

Steps for Filling in Given Name and Surname

When filling out a passport application form, follow these guidelines to ensure accuracy and efficiency:

1. Given Name

This is your first name and any middle names. Always list all the names as they appear on your identification documents, such as birth certificates, national identity cards, or other legal identification.

2. Surname

Your surname is your family name. It should be written exactly as it appears on your birth certificate or other legal documents.

3. Order of Names

Generally, given names should be listed first, followed by the surname. However, in some cultures, the surname might come first. Always check the specific format required by your country’s passport issuing authority to avoid errors.

4. Consistency

To avoid issues during processing, make sure the names match exactly with your identification documents. Any discrepancies may slow down the application process or even result in the application being rejected.

5. Special Characters

If your name includes special characters such as hyphens, accents, or other typographical marks, include them as they appear in your official documents. Failure to do so might cause confusion during verification.

Hypothetical Example

For example, if Mr. Rajinder Kumar Singh is applying for an Indian passport, the correct entries would be:

Possible Name Breakdown

First Name: Rajinder
Middle Name: Kumar
Surname: Singh

Additional Application Details

Your passport application form might have three fields: First Name, Second Name, and Surname. Here’s how to fill them:

Example Name Breakdown

L S Prabhakar
Given Name: L S
First Name: Lakshmanasandra
Second Name: Srikantarao
Surname: Prabhakar

When filling in the application details:

Steps

First Name: Your first name, given by your parents. If you have multiple first names, list them all as they appear on your identification documents. Surname: Your family name, which your father and grandfather share. For example, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, where Aishwarya Rai is the given name and Bachchan is the surname.

If you have any doubts or questions, feel free to contact the relevant passport issuing authority for further guidance.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and successful passport application process.

Thank you for your attention.