As Brits gear up for their much-anticipated getaways, a crucial detail could spell disaster at the departure gates.
For those hitting the skies for the first time since their divorce, a blissful break could turn into a nightmare if their passport and ID don’t reflect a recent name change.
Legal eagle Molly Thompson, an expert in name changes, warns newly single travellers to double-check their documents before takeoff.
Post-divorce, the question of reverting to a maiden name can be tricky, particularly for those planning to travel abroad during the summer season.
Molly cautions, “If you are newly separated and have changed your legal name, you will need to pay close attention to the status of your passport to prevent any issues while travelling.”
Raydens Solicitor offers these essential tips for soon-to-be jet-setters:
Ensure your passport and boarding pass display your updated legal name
Mismatched names on tickets and passports are a no-go for airlines and border control, so it’s vital to sort this out well before your trip. This is even more pressing if your holiday was booked before your name change.
Get in touch with your travel insurance provider
If your name appears incorrect on your insurance documents, or if you’ve changed your name and it’s not reflected in these papers, it’s recommended to contact your provider for a correction. Otherwise, you might not be covered.
Always carry your change of name deed with you
This ensures that you have the necessary paperwork to confirm your identity after a name change.
Wondering how to change your surname post-divorce?
For those wanting to revert to their maiden name, most record-keepers will accept your marriage certificate and final order as proof.
To change your surname on your passport, you’ll need to provide:.
- Your birth certificate
- A signed statement from you declaring you’ve reverted to a previous surname (like your maiden name) ‘for all purposes’
- A document proving you’re using your new name (such as a payslip, or a letter from your local council)
- Your marriage certificate
If record-keepers don’t accept these documents as proof of a name change, or if you want to change your name to something other than your maiden name, you can get a deed poll. This legal document allows you to alter any part of your name.