The Single Name Crisis: Why 'FNU' is a Problem
In many Indian states and cultural traditions, children were historically given a single name without a formal family surname. Millions of citizens hold Class 10 marksheets, Aadhaar cards, and passports with only a given name—such as 'Deepak', 'Manpreet', or 'Shalini'.
When an individual with a single name attempts to apply for a US Visa (DS-160) or Canadian immigration, Western software systems require a mandatory entry in the 'Surname' field. Because the passport shows no surname, consular officers are forced to enter 'FNU' (First Name Unknown) as your given name, shifting your single name into the surname slot. This leads to massive headaches during flight bookings, university admissions, and Social Security Number (SSN) registrations.
International Guidelines (ICAO, US, UK, Schengen, UAE)
The situation escalated when several Gulf nations (notably the United Arab Emirates) issued strict travel directives barring passengers whose passports do not reflect both a primary name (surname) and secondary name (given name) from entering on tourist visas.
Similarly, Schengen visa consular desks routinely issue procedural queries when applicants have single names that mismatch bank accounts or university sponsorship letters. Adding a surname before starting your visa application is the only permanent solution.
The 4-Step Legal Fix in India
- Surname Selection: Choose your family clan name, father's surname, or ancestral name. Ensure it is consistent across family records.
- Drafting the Affidavit: Swear an affidavit before an Executive Magistrate or Notary stating that you are transitioning from single name 'Deepak' to full name 'Deepak Sharma'.
- Newspaper Notices: Publish announcements in one National English daily and one Vernacular regional daily.
- Central Gazette Notification: File your complete dossier with the Department of Publication in New Delhi to obtain an official e-Gazette publication.
Updating Your Indian Passport
With the Gazette notification in hand, book an appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) under 'Re-issue of Passport' -> 'Change in Name'. Submit your old passport along with the original Gazette copy and newspaper pages. Your new passport will clearly display your Given Name and Surname in their respective designated fields.
Procedures and fee schedules for The Gazette of India are determined by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (Department of Publication), Government of India. While this guide reflects current administrative practice, rules are subject to official revision. KAAGZAAT is a private documentation advisory service.