How to Change a Name for an Immigrant
There are several ways to change an immigrant's name depending on the individual's status. Immigrants disclose their full legal name and provide supporting documents (e.g., birth certificate, passport) when they apply for a visa to enter the United States. While immigrants may have records with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Department of State, National Visa Center (NVC) and U.S. embassy or consulate, all agencies do not have to be notified.
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Instructions
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Amend your passport to reflect the name change. Most countries maintain embassies or consulates in the U.S. that provide services for their citizens. Contact your country's embassy (e.g., china-embassy.org/eng/hzqz) for specific information.
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Complete Form I-551 if you are a permanent resident (i.e., green card holder). For example, if you have gotten married or divorced, you can apply to replace your permanent resident card. Submit a certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree.
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Apply for U.S. citizenship using Form N-400. You must satisfy all requirements (e.g., at least 18 years old, good moral character). Part D of Form N-400 allows you to legally change your name without disclosing a reason. For instance, you can alter your name if it contains no vowels or includes multiple names.
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Contact the agency that made a mistake, if applicable. For example, if you have an Employment Authorization Document (i.e., work permit) and your name is incorrect, complete a Form I-765. Include a cover letter to explain that the application was correctly filled out but they made a mistake so that you do not have to pay again.
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Tips & Warnings
You generally are eligible for citizenship if you have been a permanent resident for five years. If you became a resident through marriage to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for citizenship after three years.
Although you can file a petition to legally change your name if you are a U.S. Permanent Resident, most courts prohibit obscene or confusing names (e.g., McDonald's Smith).
