The Indian Consulate in Dubai has introduced a significant relaxation in passport rules, allowing Indian citizens to add their spouse’s name to their passports without submitting a registered marriage certificate. Instead, applicants can now submit a self-declared joint photo affidavit known as Annexure J. This move, implemented by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), aims to streamline the process and reduce complications for couples facing delays or rejections due to the unavailability of a marriage certificate.
What is Annexure J?
Annexure J is a joint declaration form that enables passport applicants to include their spouse’s name by submitting a self-attested document. The form requires:
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A recent joint photograph of the couple.
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Full names, residential address, and passport details of both spouses.
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Aadhaar or voter ID numbers for verification.
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Signatures of both partners confirming marital status and cohabitation.
The form also includes a disclaimer stating that the applicant is solely responsible for any legal issues arising from false information. While Annexure J is optional, it serves as a convenient alternative for those without a registered marriage certificate. Additionally, women can use it to update or change their surname post-marriage, though a full name change requires following the standard procedure.
Who Can Benefit from Annexure J?
This new rule is particularly helpful for:
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Couples who have not yet registered their marriage.
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Indian expats in the UAE renewing their passports (since new passports are only issued to newborns).
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Women wishing to update their marital surname without undergoing a lengthy name change process.
Marriage Registration at the Indian Consulate
For couples seeking formal registration, the Indian Consulate in Dubai continues to offer marriage services under the Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, provided at least one partner is an Indian citizen with a valid UAE residence visa. However, marriages involving Muslim partners must be registered with a Sharia court in compliance with UAE laws. Additionally, the Consulate does not register marriages solemnized in India; such couples must complete registration with Indian authorities.
Conclusion
The introduction of Annexure J reflects the Indian government’s efforts to simplify bureaucratic processes for its citizens abroad. By easing documentation requirements, the MEA ensures smoother passport services for Indian expats in Dubai while maintaining legal safeguards. Couples now have greater flexibility in updating marital details on their passports, reducing dependency on formal marriage certificates.
