How to Fill Your Name on the VFS Appointment Form When Your Passport Has No Surname Mentioned
Welcome to this guide where we will delve into a common issue faced by many individuals when filling out the VFS appointment form. The situation you might be referring to arises when your passport does not mention a surname, but you still need to provide it for official purposes like visa applications. In such cases, the key is to ensure consistency and clarity in how you fill out the form.
Understanding the Surname Section in Passports
Passports are a critical document when it comes to international travel and visa applications. In many cases, which is why the surname section is crucial. However, some individuals may have faced the issue where their surname is not mentioned in the passport. This can occur for various reasons, such as name changes upon marriage, legal name changes, or systems where the surname is not required by default.
Personal Details and Name Changes
It’s important to understand that your name is a personal detail that is deeply tied to your identity and can change over time. For instance, if you have changed your surname after marriage or through legal means, you will need to update your documents accordingly. Adhaar cards, for example, have a more formal system for name changes, but the process is similar across different documents and forms.
Scenario of Conflicting Document Information
Consider a scenario where your Adhaar card contains a different surname than your passport. This can create confusion when filling out applications or forms, especially if the surname is required. In such cases, it’s advisable to update your documents to be consistent. Passport changes may require additional documentation, such as marriage certificates or certificates of name change, but the general principle remains the same.
US Visa Experience: FNU and Name Section
Another scenario worth mentioning is that in your US visa application, your surname might be marked as "FNU" (First Name Unknown) in the passport. This can pose a challenge when the surname is required for the VFS appointment form. Nevertheless, it has been noted that individuals with a "FNU" surname in their passports can still travel to the US multiple times.
Consistency is Key in VFS Appointment Forms
When it comes to the VFS appointment form, the key is to be consistent and clear. Write your name exactly as it appears in your passport and any other related documents. This means if your passport has a "FNU" in the surname field, you should also write "FNU" on the VFS form. It’s essential to avoid adding assumptions or making changes unless officially confirmed.
Specific Steps to Follow:
Review your passport and identify the exact name and surname section clearly. Note down the spelling and any special characters, such as diacritical marks or spaces. Write the same name exactly as it is on the VFS appointment form, without making any assumptions. Attach any relevant documents that support your name and surname, such as marriage certificates or name change documentation.Conclusion
When dealing with the VFS appointment form or any other form where your surname is required, it’s crucial to be accurate and consistent with the information in your passport. If your surname appears as "FNU" or is not mentioned, write it exactly as it is in the passport. This approach will ensure that there are no discrepancies and that your application is processed smoothly.