KLM Name Change Policy 2026: Fees, Rules & How to Correct Your Ticket

Realizing you have a typo on an international flight ticket is stressful. Whether it is a simple spelling error or a legal name change that doesn’t match your passport, you need a fix fast.

If you are flying with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the news is good. KLM has one of the most lenient policies in the industry for fixing name errors. However, you must distinguish between two types of changes immediately:

• Name Correction: Fixing a typo or updating a name to match the same passenger’s ID. (Allowed).
• Name Transfer: Changing the name to a completely different person. (Not Allowed).

This guide explains the KLM name change policy, the 2026 fees (often free), and the fastest way to fix your ticket via WhatsApp.

Does KLM Allow Name Changes? (The "Golden Rule")

When travelers search for "KLM name change," they often hope to give their ticket to a friend because they can no longer travel.

The Golden Rule:KLM tickets are strictly non-transferable.

You cannot sell, gift, or transfer your ticket to another person. If you cannot fly, you must cancel your booking (subject to fare rules) and buy a new ticket for the other person at the current price.

However, Name Corrections are permitted. If the passenger is the same but the name is spelled wrong, KLM allows you to fix it to match your passport.

When Can You Change a Name on a KLM Ticket?

Most name issues fall into three categories. Determining yours will tell you if you need to pay a fee.

1. Minor Typos (Spelling Errors)

If you made a genuine typing mistake (e.g., "Jonh" instead of "John"), KLM allows corrections.

• The Condition: It must be obvious it is the same person. You cannot change "Robert" to "Michael."
• The Cost: often Free if booked directly.

2. Legal Name Changes (Marriage/Divorce)

If your legal name has changed, your ticket must match your passport.

• Passport not updated? Fly under your maiden name. No change needed.
• Passport updated? You must change the ticket. Contact KLM support with your new passport.

3. "No Correction Needed" Cases

KLM has a unique policy where some "errors" are actually acceptable. You do NOT need to change your ticket if:

• Multiple First Names: Your ticket shows only your first name, but your passport has three. (Ticket: "John Smith", Passport: "John Paul Smith" ->OK).
• Spaces Omitted: Your ticket says "SMITHJONES" instead of "SMITH-JONES". This is normal system formatting.
• Maiden Name: You used your maiden name, provided it matches the machine-readable zone (MRZ) of your passport.

KLM Name Change Fees (2026 Breakdown)

How much does a KLM name correction fee cost? It depends on how you booked.

• Direct Booking (KLM.com):Free. If you booked directly with KLM and request the change at least 24 hours before departure, correcting a typo is usually free.
• At the Airport:€15 fee. If you wait until the airport check-in desk to fix a typo, you will be charged approx. €15.
• Travel Agents:€30 fee. If you booked via Expedia or a travel agent, you must contact them. If you are forced to handle it through KLM directly, a €30 admin fee applies.
• Reward Flights: If you booked with Flying Blue miles, corrections are generally free, but taxes may be recalculated.

How to Change Name on KLM Ticket (Step-by-Step)

Method 1: Social Media (Recommended)

KLM offers 24/7 support via social media, which is often faster than calling.

1. WhatsApp / Messenger: Find the official link on the KLM "Contact Us" page.
2. Send a Message: "I have a typo on booking [Code]. My correct name is [Name]."
3. Upload ID: Have a photo of your passport ready to upload.

For simple spelling errors on direct bookings, you can also log in online to review or manage your KLM booking before contacting customer support.

Method 2: "My Trip" (Online)

For simple typos on direct bookings:

1. Log in to My Trip on KLM.com.
2. Look for "Request Name Correction."
3. Edit the spelling if the system allows.

Method 3: Phone Support

For complex KLM name change marriage requests, call the 877-764-3622. Have your marriage certificate ready to email.

Special Section: KLM Name Change After Marriage

Rule: Your ticket must match the ID you present at the gate.

• Scenario A (Old Passport): If your passport still has your maiden name, book and fly under your maiden name. Ignore your marriage certificate.
• Scenario B (New Passport): If you updated your passport to your married name, you must update the ticket. Contact KLM immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I transfer my KLM ticket to another person? No. Tickets are non-transferable. You must cancel and rebook.

Is it free to correct a typo on KLM? Yes, generally. If you booked directly with KLM and contact them in advance, minor KLM name correction requests are free.

What if my name is misspelled on a KLM ticket? Contact KLM via WhatsApp immediately. If it is a minor typo, they will fix it.

Do I need to fix my ticket if my middle name is missing? No. KLM only requires your First and Last name to match your passport.

Conclusion

The KLM name change policy is traveler-friendly. If you catch a typo early and booked directly, it is likely free to fix. Final Tip: Check your passport now. If there is a mismatch, use KLM's WhatsApp support instantly. Do not wait for the airport.

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Learn KLM’s name change policy for 2026, including name correction rules, fees, marriage cases, and the calling 877-764-3622 is fastest way to fix ticket name errors.