QUESTION
Can a non-citizen immigrant change their name while in the United States?
Asked on Jan 26th, 2011 on Immigration - Florida
More details to this question:
I am a noncitizen who has worked in US for 7 months, I need to make my preferred name official before applying for SSN, because my name is weird and hard to be pronounced. Can I have a name change in US? If I can, how?
4 ANSWERS
Since you are not a citizen, your identity will be based on your foreign passport and that is the name that will appear on your social security card. When you apply for your green card your original name will also be based on the name in your foreign passport. The best solution would be to see a lawyer in your country of origin and have your name changed so you can apply for a passport with your new name. If your name is changing because of marriage then you could apply for a new passport at your consulate or embassy here in the US with your new name by showing your marriage license. You could then apply for your social security card with your new name.
Answered on Mar 08th, 2011 at 10:03 AM
Immigration and Naturalization Attorney serving San Diego, CA
Partner at
Feldman Feldman & Associates, PC
3 Awards
Each state has its own laws re name change - most require you to post a notice in the paper for a certain period of time, file a petition with the court, and then schedule a hearing (often in chambers) to get the Name Change Decree. After you get the Decree you apply for a new passport and new immigration documents.
Answered on Feb 03rd, 2011 at 12:28 PM
Immigration Law Attorney serving Costa Mesa, CA
Partner at
Law Offices of Louis M. Piscopo, APLC
2 Awards
The requirements and restrictions to legally change you name in the U.S. is determined by the state you live in. Each state has different rules so you have to check with the court in the state in which you are residing.
Answered on Jan 27th, 2011 at 1:28 PM
Contract Negotiations Attorney serving Miami Lakes, FL
at
Florido & Associates, P.A.
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Yes, as long as you have live in the US for more than six months you can petition the family court to change your name.
Answered on Jan 27th, 2011 at 10:58 AM