Iberia Name Correction Policy
When traveling with an airline, one of the most important details is the accuracy of the passenger’s name on the ticket. The name must exactly match the government-issued identification or passport used during travel. Even a small typo, such as an extra letter or missing character, can lead to denied boarding or unnecessary delays.
Iberia, one of the major European airlines, has a clear name correction policy to handle such situations. However, passengers often confuse name corrections with name changes. The difference is critical because Iberia allows corrections for small errors but does not permit a complete name change or transfer of the ticket to another traveler.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Iberia’s name correction policy in detail, including what types of corrections are allowed, what restrictions exist, the process to request corrections, applicable fees, supporting documents needed, and tips to avoid such issues in the future.
Why Name Accuracy Matters
A passenger’s name on the ticket must perfectly align with the passport or official ID. Airlines and border authorities strictly enforce this requirement to maintain security, prevent fraud, and ensure smooth immigration procedures. Mistakes, even if unintentional, can cause:
- Rejection during online check-in.
- Problems at baggage drop counters.
- Refusal to board at the gate.
- Trouble during international travel where visa and passport checks are involved.
That is why Iberia has a framework in place for correcting names, but only under specific circumstances.
Iberia’s Name Correction Policy
1. Allowed Corrections
Iberia permits corrections when the error is clearly accidental or legally justified. These include:
- Spelling Errors: Fixing typos, missing letters, or misplaced characters. For example, correcting Jhon to John.
- Reversed Names: Adjustments if the first name and last name fields are swapped during booking.
- Middle Names: Adding, removing, or correcting a middle name, as long as the rest of the name matches.
- Legal Name Changes: Updates due to marriage, divorce, or legal decree, provided official documentation is submitted.
- Accent Marks or Special Characters: Modifications where accents or diacritical marks were missed or incorrectly placed.
2. Restricted Corrections
Iberia does not allow the following:
- Changing the entire passenger name to another person.
- Transferring a ticket to a different traveler.
- Using nicknames in place of the legal name.
- Altering multiple sections of the name to the point it looks like a different individual.
In simple terms, Iberia’s correction policy is designed for fixing genuine mistakes, not for reassigning a ticket.
Name Correction Process
Step 1: Review Your Booking
Log into the Iberia website under “Manage Your Booking” and verify the name exactly as it appears.
Step 2: Determine the Type of Error
Is it a typo, reversed names, or a legal update? Knowing this helps prepare the right approach.
Step 3: Contact Iberia
- Phone Support: Speak with a customer service representative to initiate corrections.
- Online Portal: Some simple adjustments may be possible online.
- Airport Counter or Iberia Office: For urgent travel or complex corrections, in-person help is available.
Step 4: Provide Documentation
- Passport or government-issued ID for typos and verification.
- Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for legal changes.
Step 5: Pay Fees if Applicable
Depending on the correction type, an administrative fee may be charged.
Step 6: Confirm Correction
Always request a corrected ticket or confirmation email before your journey.
Fees for Name Corrections
Fees vary depending on the type of correction and when the issue is reported:
- Within 24 Hours of Booking: Corrections are often free if reported quickly.
- After 24 Hours: Administrative charges may apply.
- Ticket Reissuance: If the system requires the ticket to be reissued, additional costs including fare differences may apply.
- Third-Party Bookings: If booked through a travel agency, you may also have to pay their service fees.
Example Scenarios
- Simple Typo
Passenger booked ticket as Marria instead of Maria. Correction is allowed, usually with no or minimal fee. - Reversed Names
Ticket lists surname as first name and vice versa. Correction is permitted, subject to service charges. - Legal Name Change
Passenger married and now has a new surname. Correction is allowed with supporting documents. - Transfer Request
Passenger wants to change the ticket from one person to another. Not allowed under Iberia’s policy.
Consequences of Not Correcting a Name
Failing to fix a name error before departure can have serious consequences:
- Denied boarding at the airport.
- Ticket declared invalid, requiring full repurchase.
- Missed connections and disruptions to your travel schedule.
- Additional costs and stress.
Tips to Avoid Name Issues
- Always use the exact legal name as shown on your passport.
- Double-check all details before confirming a booking.
- Avoid using abbreviations or nicknames.
- Correct mistakes immediately upon noticing them.
- Keep supporting documents ready if you recently had a legal name change.
FAQs:
1. What does Iberia’s name correction policy allow?
Iberia allows small corrections such as fixing typos, reversed names, or legal updates supported by documents.
2. Can I completely change the name on my Iberia ticket?
No, Iberia does not allow complete name changes or transferring the ticket to another person.
3. What documents are needed for a legal name change?
A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or official court document is required.
4. Are there fees for correcting my name?
Yes, fees may apply depending on the type of correction and timing of the request.
5. Can I correct my name online?
Yes, small corrections may be possible using the Manage Your Booking tool on Iberia’s website.
6. What if I notice the error at the airport?
Corrections might be possible, but it is better to resolve them before reaching the airport to avoid boarding issues.
7. Can middle names be added or corrected?
Yes, middle name errors are typically considered minor corrections.
8. Does Iberia allow ticket transfers to another person?
No, tickets are non-transferable and must be used by the person whose name is on the ticket.
9. How long do I have to correct a name?
It is recommended to correct it immediately, ideally within 24 hours of booking.
10. What happens if my name is misspelled and I do not fix it?
You may be denied boarding, and the ticket could become invalid.
11. Can I fix accent marks in my name?
Yes, adjustments for accents or diacritical marks are allowed.
12. Do I have to pay if the error was made by Iberia?
If the mistake is the airline’s fault, corrections are usually free.
13. Can children’s tickets be corrected?
Yes, children’s tickets must also match their identification and corrections are permitted.
14. What if I booked through a travel agent?
You will need to contact the agent directly, and additional service charges may apply.
15. Why does Iberia not allow name transfers?
To prevent fraud and ensure security, tickets must be used only by the original passenger.