Passport Name Change: What You Need Before Your Next Trip
Has your name changed because of marriage, divorce, or a legal name change? If you have international travel coming up, it’s important to make sure your U.S. passport reflects the name you’ll be using for your trip.
The good news is that Passport Visa Advisors (PVA) can help you navigate the passport name-change process, understand the required documentation, and prepare your application.
Traveling soon? Don’t wait until the last minute to address your passport paperwork. If your departure date is approaching, contact PVA to discuss your options for expedited U.S. passport service. PVA assists with expediting eligible applications for travelers departing within 14 days, subject to applicable requirements.
What Documents Do You Need?
The documentation you need depends on the reason for your name change:
- Marriage: A certified copy of your marriage certificate.
- Divorce: A certified copy of your divorce decree or other acceptable documentation.
- Legal name change: A certified copy of the court order authorizing your new name.
If you’re returning to your maiden name after divorce, pay special attention to your divorce decree. When required, it must authorize the restoration of your former name. If the necessary provision is missing, you may need additional legal documentation before your passport can be issued in that name.
A missing document can complicate your application and potentially delay your travel plans. Reviewing your paperwork before applying can help you avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Is a Passport Name Change the Same as a Renewal?
Not necessarily. The correct application form and process depend on your circumstances, including when your passport was issued and how your name changed.
You may need to submit your current passport, the appropriate application form, a passport photo, and your official name-change document.
If you’re unsure which process applies to you, PVA can help you understand your options and prepare the required paperwork.
Need Your Passport Faster?
If you have a trip approaching, the time available to obtain your updated passport matters.
Passport Visa Advisors offers passport expediting services for eligible travelers, providing personalized guidance and assistance with the application process. If your departure is within 14 days, contact PVA promptly to discuss the available service options and applicable requirements.
Expedited service does not guarantee issuance by a particular date. The U.S. Department of State makes the final decision on passport issuance and processing.
Don’t let uncertainty about your paperwork add stress to your travel plans.
Start Your Passport Application with PVA
Or call PVA at 844-318-1765 to discuss your passport needs.
Let PVA Help You Prepare
Whether you’re updating your passport after marriage, returning to a former name after divorce, or documenting a legal name change, Passport Visa Advisors can help you navigate the process.
With more than 20 years of experience in passport and visa expediting, PVA provides personalized assistance to help travelers understand their documentation requirements and prepare their applications.
Contact Passport Visa Advisors to discuss your name change and upcoming travel plans.
Passport Visa Advisors is an independent passport expediting service, not a government agency. The U.S. Department of State determines eligibility, processing, and final issuance decisions.
