Where To Start If You Want A Pass Port Name Change

Since you have just gotten married, chances are you have to apply for a passport name change. When this document is used for travel abroad or even to reenter the United States, it has to be accurate. This includes any of the names listed on it. It is your responsibility to ensure that this is so.

Passport Corrections

You are responsible for ensuring that all the data in your book is correct. When you receive it with incorrect information, you would need to apply for changes within a timely manner. If you have plans for travel, this should be corrected beforehand, in order that your plans not be delayed.

Documents Needed

If you have changed your name through legal proceedings, this would also require a change in your travel documents. When you have decided to begin the process, there is other paperwork that will also be required. Your current passport, of course, is the most important requirement. It has to be undamaged when it is sent back.

Form DS-5504

Next would be the appropriate application form, the DS-5504, will need to be completed. This form authorizes changes for several reasons. This includes marriage, typos or other name changes that are needed.

Marriage Certificate

You also need to provide other documents relating to the changes that you are requesting. The paperwork that you would need to provide would be a copy of your marriage certificate or a copy of the documentation proving that the change was indeed court ordered.

New Photo

As with most of the applications for travel documents, you might be required to provide a new photo. It would have to be a recent photo taken within the last six months. By using a professional photographer, you could be assured that the sizes are correct. They are also up to date on the required background colors.

Fees

A new application can be made within a year of the most current book with no renewal fee. If you choose to have your application expedited, you could receive it faster. Since this would be your option, an expediting fee would be charged.

Form DS-82

However, if it has been more than a year since your book was issued, there are different regulations. The form that you will need to use for this process is the DS-82. This also requires you to pay a renewal fee. The other documents will remain the same, including the photo. This form is not available for a minor to use, check with the issuing agency on the correct form.

Form DS-11

For changes that have not been covered, documentation will be different. Three pieces of paperwork showing exclusive use of the name requested for at least five years also showing date and place of birth will be required. In addition, the form needed for this application would be the DS-11. The fees applied would be considered a first time application.

Whichever form you use for your American passport name change, you will need to know the address that you will mail your documents to. Include the proper expedited USA passports form required, based on your needs. Remember to put in the proper fees and photo, if applicable.