If your name has been legally changed due to a marriage or divorce, you will need to change the name on your passport. The process for a
USA Passport Name Change is easy, but it can take a long time to receive your new passport.
The first document you will need to have your name changed on will be your Social Security card. Until you have a Social Security card with the correct name, you cannot change your passport. Contact your local branch of the Social Security Administration or visit them on the Internet to obtain additional information on how to change your Social Security card.
If has been longer than 12 months since you obtained your passport, you should fill out form DS-82 to change your name. This form can usually be acquired by visiting the local post office. The Bureau of Consular Affairs will also have it online, so you can print it off there. Printing it off the Internet may be more convenient.
To be able to use this form, you will be required to provide an original copy of your marriage certificate, and your original passport. The passport cannot be more than 15 years old and you had to have been a minimum of 16 years of age when you were issued your current passport.
Now,
new us passport photos will need to be attached to your application. Some people include their own photo. If you do, it has to be a head shot, and it has to measure 2 inches square. You can also find a local store that does passport photos and in some areas the post office will also do them. If you photos are not the correct size, your application will be returned to you.
Once you have the application filled out and the passport photos in your hand, you are ready to mail everything. You should send it in a padded envelope to the address that is listed on your paperwork. For your own protection you might consider sending it in such a way that the post office can trace it if it gets lost. Ensure that you have included all required documentation along with any fees that are required.
If you will need your passport quickly, there is an additional fee of $60 to have it expedited. For the fastest possible delivery, it is a good idea to mark the outside of the padded envelope with the word "EXPEDITED." This helps to ensure that those who handle it will treat it as a rushed package. Alternatively, if you need it in less than 2 weeks you can also make an appointment with a Regional Passport Agency. To find the office closest to you, visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs on the Internet.
More Information:
Although it can take up to 2 months receive your
new passport, submitting a
Pass port Name Change is an easy process. As long as you submit all of the required documentation with the application, and photos that are of acceptable size, along with the required fees, you should not encounter any problems.
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