Indian Passport Name Change: Your Guide to the Affidavit Process at CGI Toronto

Thinking about changing your name on your Indian passport while living in Canada? It's a common process, but it requires a specific affidavit attested by the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Toronto. This guide will walk you through exactly how to get that affidavit, making the journey feel a little less daunting.

Consider this your step-by-step roadmap, written by someone who understands the nuances of dealing with official processes. We'll cover what you need, how to do it, and what to expect.

Why You Need This Affidavit

Before your Indian passport can reflect a new name, you'll need an official declaration. This "Affidavit for Change of Name" serves as your sworn statement, attested by the Consulate, confirming your name change. It's a mandatory foundational document for the subsequent application to re-issue your passport with your new name. Without this attested affidavit, your passport name change application won't proceed.

This guide is specifically for Indian citizens residing in Ontario or Manitoba, as these provinces fall under the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of India in Toronto. If you live elsewhere in Canada, you'll need to contact the relevant Indian High Commission or Consulate.

The Two-Phase Process: Affidavit First, Passport Later

It's crucial to understand that getting this affidavit attested is Phase 1 of your name change journey. It's a "Miscellaneous Consular Service." Phase 2 is applying for a new passport with your changed name, which you do after you have the attested affidavit. This guide focuses on Phase 1.

Phase 1: Obtaining the Attested Affidavit – What You'll Need

Gathering all your documents correctly is the most critical step. Missing even one item can lead to delays.

Here's a checklist of what you'll typically need to prepare:

1. Your Current Indian Passport (Original and Copy):
   • The original passport, valid for at least six months.
   • A photocopy of the first five pages and the last two pages of your passport. Also, copy any pages with endorsements or observations.
2. Proof of Canadian Address (Original and Copy):
   • This confirms your jurisdiction within CGI Toronto's area. Acceptable documents include a Canadian driving license, a utility bill (hydro, gas, landline phone, internet), or a bank statement. The address on the document must match your application.
3. Proof of Indian Address (Copy):
   • A copy of an Indian utility bill, Aadhar card, or electoral ID card showing an Indian address. This is usually required for consular services.
4. Proof of Legal Status in Canada (Original and Copy):
   • Examples include your Permanent Resident card, Work Permit, Study Permit, or Visitor Record.
5. Miscellaneous Services Application Form:
   • This form is available on the VFS Global website for India in Canada. You'll need to fill it out online, print it, and sign it. Select "Miscellaneous Services" and then "Change of Name."
6. Affidavit for Change of Name Form:
   • This specific affidavit format is also available under the "Forms" section on the VFS Global website. Do not create your own affidavit. You must use the prescribed format.
   • Fill out this form carefully, ensuring your old name and proposed new name are clearly stated.
   • Crucial: Do not sign this affidavit until you are in front of the Consular Officer or the VFS Global representative who will witness your signature.
7. Photographs:
   • Two recent passport-sized photographs (51mm x 51mm, white background, no shadows, matte finish, not older than six months). Ensure they meet Indian passport photo specifications.
8. Self-Attestation:
   • Make photocopies of all original documents and self-attest each copy by signing them. This is a common requirement for Indian consular services.
9. Fee:
   • The current fee for Miscellaneous Consular Services (which includes affidavit attestation) is CAD 30.00. There will also be a Consular Surcharge of CAD 3.00 and a VFS Global service charge of CAD 7.50.
   • Payment Method: Typically, payment is made online during the VFS application process or via bank draft/money order payable to "Consulate General of India, Toronto" if applying directly at the Consulate (though VFS is the primary channel for passport/consular services). Always check the VFS Global website for the most current fee structure and acceptable payment methods.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

The entire process for consular services, including affidavit attestation, is handled by VFS Global on behalf of the CGI Toronto.

1. Visit the VFS Global Website:
   • Go to the VFS Global website for India in Canada. This is your primary portal.
2. Fill Out the Online Application:
   • Navigate to "Consular Services" and select "Miscellaneous Consular Services."
   • Complete the online Miscellaneous Services Application Form. Be meticulous with your details.
   • Print the completed form.
3. Download the Affidavit Form:
   • Find and download the Affidavit for Change of Name form from the VFS Global "Forms" section.
   • Fill it out with your details, but do not sign it yet.
4. Prepare Your Documents:
   • Organize all the original documents and their self-attested photocopies as per the checklist above.
5. Book an Appointment:
   • Once your online application is complete and you've gathered your documents, book an appointment through the VFS Global website for "Miscellaneous Consular Services" at the Toronto centre. Walk-ins are generally not permitted.
6. Attend Your Appointment:
   • Arrive at the VFS Global centre in Toronto at your scheduled time with all your original documents, self-attested copies, and printed forms.
   • The VFS staff will verify your documents.
   • You will sign the Affidavit for Change of Name in front of the VFS representative, who will then forward it to the Consulate for attestation.
   • Pay the applicable fees.
7. Collection:
   • After the Consulate attests the affidavit, VFS Global will inform you when it's ready for collection. You can typically choose to pick it up in person or have it mailed back to you (additional courier charges apply).
   • The processing time for affidavit attestation is usually 5-10 business days after the documents are received by the Consulate, excluding transit time.

Important Tips & Potential Pitfalls

• Jurisdiction Matters: Ensure you're applying to the correct Consulate (CGI Toronto for Ontario/Manitoba). Applying to the wrong jurisdiction will result in rejection.
• Check VFS Global First: The VFS Global website is the most up-to-date source for forms, fees, and procedures. Always cross-reference your information there before starting.
• Completeness is Key: Any missing document or incomplete form will cause delays. Use the checklists provided by VFS Global religiously.
• Photo Specifications: Indian passport photos are very specific. Ensure yours meet the 51mm x 51mm (2x2 inch) size, white background, and other requirements.
• Signature Consistency: Ensure your signature on all forms matches your signature in your current passport.
• The Unsigned Affidavit: Remember, the Affidavit for Change of Name must be signed in front of the witnessing authority at VFS Global or the Consulate.
• Processing Time: Be realistic. While estimates are given, unforeseen circumstances can cause delays. Plan well in advance, especially if you have travel plans.
• Tracking Your Application: VFS Global provides an online tracking service. Keep your reference number handy.

What Happens After You Get the Attested Affidavit?

Once you have your attested "Affidavit for Change of Name," you've completed Phase 1. Congratulations!

Now, you can proceed with Phase 2: Applying for a Re-issue of your Indian Passport with the New Name.

This next phase is a separate application, also handled through VFS Global. It will require additional documentation, including:

• Your newly attested Affidavit for Change of Name.
• Advertisements published in two newspapers (one leading daily in India and one leading daily in Canada) declaring your name change.
• A copy of the Gazette Notification from India (if applicable, or if you've already obtained one).
• The Passport Application Form (for re-issue).
• All other standard passport re-issue documents (old passport, photos, proof of address, etc.).

Do not confuse the affidavit attestation with the passport re-issue itself. The attested affidavit is simply a prerequisite, a critical piece of the puzzle you'll use for your actual passport application.

By following these steps carefully, you'll successfully obtain your attested affidavit from the CGI Toronto, putting you firmly on the path to updating your Indian passport with your new name. Good luck!