People often ask the question “How to change last name on green card after marriage”. Changing Your Name During the Green Card Process:
- Apply with Your Married Name: Enter your married name on the immigration forms and submit your marriage certificate as proof.
- Consider Limitations: Note that USCIS has character limits and does not accommodate hyphenated names or certain characters in last names.
- Updating Documents: Once your green card is approved, changing your name becomes more involved but not impossible. You can request a name change during the I-751 filing or file Form I-90 for a name change.
Changing Your Name After Marriage:
- Update Social Security Card: Start by updating your Social Security card with your new last name using certified copies of your marriage license.
- Update Driver’s License: Obtain an updated driver’s license in your new name by visiting your state’s DMV.
- Update Travel Documents: Update your passport and other travel documents to match your new identification.
Additional Note:
- If you decide to change your name after receiving permanent residence, you may need to file Form I-90 to replace your green card with the new name.
- Remember, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration attorney for guidance tailored to your specific situation.
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What documents are needed to change name on green card after marriage?
To change your name on a green card after marriage, you typically need your marriage certificate as proof of the name change. This document is legally recognized and accepted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) without the need for additional court procedures. Here are the key steps and considerations:
Required Documents:
- Marriage Certificate: Proof of your name change due to marriage.
- Proof of Identity: Include your passport and birth certificate showing your previous name.
- Legal Name Change Document: If applicable, provide court documents reflecting a legal name change.
Process Overview:
- During Green Card Application: Enter your married name on immigration forms and submit the marriage certificate.
- After Green Card Approval: If changing your name post-approval, file Form I-90 for a name change with USCIS.
Additional Steps:
- Update your Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, and other relevant documents to reflect your new name.
Changing your name during the initial green card application process simplifies the procedure, while changing it post-approval involves more steps and potential fees. It’s advisable to maintain consistency in your name across all documents to avoid delays or rejections in the application process.
How long does it take to change name on green card after marriage?
The time it takes to change your name on a green card after marriage can vary depending on when you choose to make the change in the immigration process. Here are some key points based on the search results:
During Green Card Application:
- It is easier to change your name during the initial application process by submitting your marriage certificate as proof. This allows your green card and other documents to reflect your new name from the start.
After Green Card Approval:
- If you decide to change your name post-approval, you can do so by filing Form I-90 for a name change with USCIS. This process may involve additional fees and could take longer than changing your name during the initial application.
Considerations:
- Changing your name after receiving permanent residence is possible but more involved, requiring updates with various agencies like Social Security, DMV, and others. It’s important to be consistent in updating all relevant documents.
The timeline for changing your name on a green card after marriage can range from immediately during the initial application process to a more extended period post-approval, depending on when you choose to make the change.
Can i change my first name on green card after marriage?
Yes, you can change your first name on a green card after marriage. Here’s how:
During Marriage-Based Green Card Application:
- When filing for a marriage-based green card, you can change your name simultaneously by providing sufficient proof of your marriage, such as a marriage certificate.
After Receiving Your Green Card:
- If you decide to change your name after receiving your green card, you can do so by filing Form I-90 for a name change with USCIS.
Important Considerations:
- Changing your first name after marriage is possible but may involve additional steps and fees.
- It’s advisable to consider this decision carefully and consult with an immigration attorney for guidance tailored to your specific situation.