Travelers booking flights with Qatar Airways often have questions about name changes and corrections on their tickets. Whether it’s a minor typo or a legal name change, it’s important to know what Qatar Airways allows and the procedures involved. This guide explains the Qatar Airways name change policy, when corrections are permitted, fees involved, and how to handle these changes smoothly in 2025.
Can You Change Your Name on a Qatar Airways Ticket?
Qatar Airways generally does not allow full name changes on an existing ticket reservation (PNR). The airline treats name changes strictly due to security, regulatory, and operational reasons. Instead, if a passenger needs to change the name on a ticket, the PNR usually has to be canceled and a new booking created based on seat availability.
However, minor name corrections are allowed under specific conditions, such as:
Spelling mistakes (up to 3 characters including first name, last name, or spaces)
Transposed names (e.g., switched first and last names)
Adding or correcting middle names or initials (within the character limit)
Changing a nickname to a full given name starting with the same letter
Removing prefixes like Mr., Mrs., etc.
These corrections are typically allowed once per ticket, and the passenger must prove the corrected name matches the travel document exactly.
Legal Name Changes: Marriage, Divorce, Adoption
In cases of legal name changes due to marriage, divorce, or adoption, Qatar Airways permits the change but requires official documents to verify the identity. Passengers must provide evidence such as marriage certificates or court orders. The airline will then process the change accordingly, but this is limited only to cases where the date of birth in the original and new documents match exactly.
Restrictions on Name Changes/Corrections
Certain scenarios are strictly prohibited for name changes or corrections by Qatar Airways:
Tickets involving code-share or interline flights (except a few specific partner airlines)
Partially flown reservations (i.e., tickets that have been partially used)
Reservations created from Privilege Club profiles
Changes after passenger check-in (except in special cases)
Swapping names with another person or booking for an entirely different traveler
If any of these restrictions apply, the only option is often to cancel and rebook.
Fees and Procedures
Name corrections within the allowed 3-character limit generally do not incur fees but must be done before the first flight segment.
For legal name changes, fees vary depending on route and fare type.
New e-tickets are issued with endorsements indicating the reason for the name correction or change.
Name correction/change requests are submitted via Qatar Airways trade portals or customer service channels, and travelers must act promptly.
How to Submit a Name Correction Request
Travel agencies and registered trade users can submit requests via Qatar Airways trade portals.
Individual passengers should contact the airline customer service or their travel agent as soon as an error is discovered.
It is advised to provide scanned proof of government-issued IDs to support the request.
Tips to Avoid Issues With Qatar Airways Name Policies
Always enter passenger names exactly as shown on official travel documents when booking.
Avoid using initials instead of full names — many systems flag such entries.
Double-check booking confirmations immediately for errors.
Address any name issues early to avoid complications at check-in or boarding.
Summary
Qatar Airways has a strict, well-defined policy regarding name changes and corrections designed to meet global security and regulatory requirements. While minor corrections are allowed under certain limits, full name changes require cancellation and rebooking. Understanding and adhering to these rules ensures your travel plans remain smooth and hassle-free.