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How to Travel During Your Name Change

Jordi Lippe-McGraw is a freelance writer and editor covering travel, parenting, and wellness. She’s traveled to more than 50 countries on all seven continents (including Antarctica while five months pregnant) and equally loves penguins and truffles.

travel name change marriage

The wedding bells chimed, and you said, “I do.” Everything should be smooth sailing from here on out, right? Well, not exactly. If you plan on changing your name, prepare for some less-than-glamorous paperwork, post cake-cutting.

The process is complicated enough to begin with, and traveling in the midst of a name change on your identification documents adds yet another layer of difficulty. Enter Danielle Tate, the founder and CEO of MissNowMrs.com , an online name-change service for brides. Here, she breaks down the seven tips and suggestions on how to travel while changing your name.

7 Tips to Traveling During Your Name Change:

1.) Book your honeymoon travel in your maiden name. It will take two weeks for your marriage certificate to be issued after your wedding, so you will be traveling with identification in your married name.

2.) The TSA will not accept a marriage certificate as a form of identification. So, bring your driver's license or passport when you fly.

3.) Most airlines will not update a name on a ticket, and will charge full fare for a new ticket in a different name. If you are concerned that your spouse will make a mistake with your name and travel plans, opt for travel insurance.

4.) If you filed for a new passport in your maiden name to travel for your honeymoon, you have 12 months from your wedding date to file for a free passport in your new name! Think of it as a wedding gift from the State Department.

5.) The State Department takes an average of 5 weeks to issue a new passport, so plan your travel and the name(s) on your tickets accordingly.

6.) Should you have a flight booked in your married name, you can use your ticket as proof to expedite the processing of your passport at a regional passport center in one day.

7.) If you travel for work, inform HR and the booking agency of your name-change plans. This will allow them to flag your account and make sure they book your travel in the correct name.

  • Jordi Lippe : By Jordi Lippe
  • Jordi Lippe-McGraw : By Jordi Lippe-McGraw

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Do you need to correct or update your U.S. passport due to a name change, data error, or printing error? Pick the topic below to learn how.

Change Your Name

The process to change your name on your passport varies depending on your situation. Expand the boxes below to find the process that applies to you.

Less than one year after BOTH my passport was issued and my name was legally changed

Submit the following by mail:

  • Form DS-5504  (find mailing instructions on the form)
  • Your most recent U.S. passport
  • An original or certified document which shows that you changed your name less than one year after we issued your most recent U.S. passport. Examples include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • One  passport photo

You will not have to submit any passport fees unless you want expedited service which costs an extra $60. 

More than one year after either my passport was issued or my name was legally changed

You may be eligible to renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82 or apply in person using Form DS-11.

Can I renew by mail?

You can renew by mail using  Form DS-82  if your most recent passport:

  • Is submitted with your application
  • Is undamaged (other than normal wear and tear )
  • Was issued when you were age 16 or older
  • Was issued within the last 15 years
  • Was issued in your current name (or you can show your name change)

If you are eligible to renew, submit the following by mail:

  • Your original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
  • One color  passport photo
  • Fees , which are different depending on your age
  • Send Form DS-82 and supporting documents using USPS. UPS, FedEx, DHL, and other companies cannot deliver to the PO Box addresses listed on Form DS-82.

How do I apply in person if I cannot renew by mail?

If you are not eligible to renew your passport by mail using Form DS-82,  apply in person  and submit the following:

  • Your evidence of U.S. citizenship and photocopy of that evidence
  • Valid ID and photocopy of that ID
  • Fees , which are different depending on your age

Please note : If your name has changed because you are married  and  you show us an ID issued in your new name, you do not need to submit proof of your name change. You must include the details of the marriage on the second page of Form DS-11.

Already using a different name but cannot show the change

If you cannot show the change with a court order, divorce decree, or marriage certificate, apply in person and submit:

  • Your evidence of U.S. citizenship
  • Valid ID issued in the name you are currently using and photocopy of that ID

What should I do if my name is different than what is on my citizenship evidence, or I cannot show my new name through marriage or on a court order?

You may need to fill out  Form DS-60: Affidavit Regarding a Change of Name  if:

  • The name you are using is different than the name on your evidence of U.S. citizenship, or
  • Your new name is not shown on a court order or through marriage.

This form must be completed by two people who have known you by both names. You must also submit three certified or original public records that show you have used the new name for five years or more.

Correct a Data or Printing Error

You can correct your passport if there is a data or printing error. A data error may include an issue with your name, gender, or place of birth. A printing error may include data is missing on the biographical page, discoloration, or crooked printing. We will correct the error at no charge if the passport is still valid.

  • Your current passport
  • One color photo
  • Evidence of the error (e.g. your U.S. birth certificate showing the correct spelling of your last name).
  • You will not have to submit any fees.
  • If you are reporting the error within one year of us issuing your incorrect passport, the new passport will be valid for 10 years.
  • If you are reporting the error after one year, the new passport will be valid until the expiration date of your original, incorrect passport. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i self-select my gender marker.

Please see our Selecting Your Gender Marker  page for information.

I have a passport, but I’ve changed addresses. Do I need to update my passport?

No. You don’t need to update your current passport with your new address.

Call  1-877-487-2778  or  1-888-874-7793 (TDD/TTY) if you have an application in process and you are waiting for a passport. 

My passport photo is really bad. Can I change it?

If your photo looks bad because of our printing error, you can use Form DS-5504 to reapply at no cost to you.

If your photo is printed correctly and you dislike your photo, you may use Form DS-82 (if eligible) to reapply. You must pay the normal fees.

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

  • It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
  • Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

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How to change your name and what government agencies to notify

You might change your name through marriage, divorce, or court. Update your new name with Social Security, the motor vehicle office, and other government agencies.

How to legally change your name

The process of changing your name through marriage, divorce, or a court order can vary between states. 

Before you get married, you must apply for a marriage license. After you apply for the license and get married, your new name will be reflected on your marriage certificate. Contact the local government where you are getting married to learn about applying for a marriage license and how to change your name.

When you file for divorce, you can change your name back to the name you used before you got married. In most states, you may do so when you apply for your divorce decree. Contact your local government to learn more about changing your name when you file for divorce.

Court order

In most cases, you must file a petition with your local court to change your name. To do so, you may need to file paperwork and appear before a judge to complete the process. Find your local government website and contact your circuit court to get information about how you can legally change your name.

Government agencies to notify when you change your name

Use certified copies of marriage and divorce certificates or name change orders as proof to notify these federal and state agencies that you changed your name.

Social Security card

Notify the Social Security Administration  (SSA) early. Other agencies learn of name changes through the SSA.

Driver’s license or state ID card

Contact your  state motor vehicle office . Having an updated license or state ID will make changing your name with other agencies easier.

Tax returns

Every name on your tax return must match Social Security Administration records. The IRS says it is critical to  update names with the SSA before filing your tax return .

U.S. passport

Report your name change  to the State Department as soon as possible to get an updated passport.

Naturalization certificate and certificate of citizenship

Complete a USCIS application online or by mail  to update the name on your naturalization or citizenship certificate.

Veterans benefits

If you receive veterans health care or benefits, notify the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) .

Voter registration

Update your state voter registration:

  • Online through vote.gov  or
  • By mail using the National Mail Voter Registration form

Postal service

Report your name change to the  local post office  that delivers your mail.

State benefits programs

Contact your  state's social services office  if you receive SNAP (food stamps), TANF (welfare), or other public assistance.

State and property taxes

Notify your state taxing authority .

If you own a home, notify the city or county property tax office.

LAST UPDATED: February 2, 2024

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The ultimate guide to updating travel documents after a name change

IMG-bride-and-groom.jpg

While more and more people are choosing to keep their surname after marriage, many still take their partner's name after the ceremony. Another popular option is to create a hyphenated last name, but doing so doesn't make the process of legally changing your name any less complicated.

Changing your name can be viewed as the standard, and perhaps even romantic, but there's no getting over the fact that it's a laborious undertaking. If you're changing your name — whatever the reason — follow this guide to make sure you're ready to enter this paperwork gauntlet.

Image by LPETTET / Getty Images

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Step 1: Be mindful of time constraints

This is a time-consuming process. Some changes will have to be made in person, such as getting your new driver's license . Other offices may allow you to mail in your name change request, but then you'll be faced with mail delays. If you're heading out on a honeymoon directly after your wedding, you should book your travel under your maiden name and change your name once you're home. This is because you likely won't have enough time to obtain new IDs and credit cards that reflect your married name, which is important since the Transportation Security Administration does not accept marriage certificates as a form of identification, before your trip.

If you're planning to change your name, now could be a surprisingly good time to do so — if you don't have any upcoming travel on the calendar, of course. Just know that the coronavirus pandemic has made, well, just about everything take even longer than usual, so brace yourself for a long waiting period.

Step 2: Get certified copies

Once you've decided to move forward with the process, you're going to need to prove that you have a legal name change to get started. For example, this means that if you recently got married, you will need to provide certified copies of your marriage certificate. You can get these through the vital statistics or records department of the state where your marriage took place. Expect to pay approximately $15 to $25 for the first copy; additional copies are usually around $5, though some locations charge the same price per copy. Always order a few, as you may not always receive your certified copy back after submitting it as proof of your name change while updating documents.

Step 3: Acquire a new Social Security card

Image by Tetra Images / Getty Images.

Updating your Social Security card should be one of the first things you do when you change your name. Your Social Security Administration (SSA) card and number will often be necessary to get a new driver's license, which will be required for many of the other steps in the process . Changing your name with the SSA will also notify the IRS and help make sure your name and Social Security number match. If you don't want to mail in your ID and marriage certificate, you'll need to find your local SSA office and file the form in person. With the post-pandemic backlog, current wait times are long — one TPG staffer has waited over a month. Just remember, SSA offices closed at the beginning of the pandemic, so you can currently only enter your local office with an appointment .

Related: The ultimate guide to credit card application restrictions

Step 4: Get a new driver's license

Now that you have your new Social Security card with your new name, you're ready to head to the DMV. Check online with your state's Department of Licensing to find out what documents you'll need to bring with you to get a new ID with your married name. Most likely, you'll need to bring your current driver's license, your certified marriage certificate and your new Social Security card. You'll also want to ask if your voter registration will be changed along with your driver's license. If not, add the voter registration name change to your list of things to do.

Step 5: Update your passport

update your passport with your new name after you're married

To update your passport , you'll need to determine what form you must submit and if you're able to submit it via mail. If you got your passport less than a year ago, for example, you'll have a different process than if it's more than a year old. If your passport was issued more than one year ago, you'll follow the passport renewal process. Regardless of how old your passport is, you'll probably need to include a certified copy of your marriage certificate. New passports typically take four to six weeks to process, though there are ways to expedite the process , if necessary.

And, of course, these aren't normal times. The U.S. Department of State still has a backlog of passport applications and renewals to process. Expect to wait up to 11 weeks (or five to seven weeks with expedited service) for a new passport. As international travel has made a comeback, there has been a surge in new applications and renewals, so now may be a good time to put your passport application into the queue — especially if you don't intend to travel anytime soon.

Step 6: Change your name with TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry

Once you've updated your passport, you'll want to change your name for trusted traveler programs. For TSA PreCheck, you can call 855-347-8371 on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET. To change your name for Global Entry , you'll need to visit one of the program's enrollment centers. Don't forget to bring your new passport and marriage certificate, just in case.

Enrollment centers in the U.S. have now reopened following the pandemic, but be sure to check the hours of your local center before making any plans. Normally, you can drop in for the name update. Due to COVID-19, appointments may be necessary at some centers and must be scheduled in advance online through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Trusted Traveler Programs website . Availability will vary by location.

Step 7: Update your name on your CDC vaccination card

The CDC vaccination card has become an essential travel document. Travel plans can quickly be derailed if the name on your card doesn't match your passport and official documentation. In the U.S., all state-approved COVID-19 vaccination providers are required to log vaccine information in their state's immunization database. There should always be an official back-up record of your vaccination status. To request a replacement card, contact your state health department or the health care provider who administered the doses. You'll need to show a copy of your marriage license and your original CDC vaccine card.

Step 8: Change your financial records

Your credit card may save you from bag fees. (image courtesy of Shutterstock)

With your new driver's license and Social Security number, you should be ready to update your financial records. Start by visiting your local bank branch, and don't forget to bring your new ID and marriage certificate.

Most credit cards will need you to fax or mail a digital copy of your new ID showing your changed name, but each will have its own method and forms. Chase , for example, requires account holders to send in a form with a copy of their marriage certificate. American Express may accept your new U.S. passport or driver's license. Check with your issuer directly to determine what forms and evidence will be required. You can also call your credit card's customer service number or use the issuer's website chat feature.

Once you've updated your name on your credit cards, your new name will eventually be updated on your credit report. You don't need to contact the credit reporting companies directly, but keep in mind you may want to hold off on applying for new credit cards until you see your new name reflected on your credit report. Your credit report is also a great resource for locating all the financial institutions where you have accounts.

Step 9: Update your rewards accounts

After updating your personal documents, it's time to address your loyalty program and rewards accounts . Just like with your banking institutions, you'll need to contact each program to find out what is required for the name change. Most of the programs, including Hyatt and Marriott, will require you fax or mail your legal documents to a specific address. Delta and United, similarly, will request a copy of your marriage certificate or another legal document. (If you have existing reservations made prior to your name change, most U.S. airlines will accommodate a legal name change without charging a fee.)

If you're enrolled in a number of programs, signing up for an e-fax service may be helpful. You and your spouse may also want to consider changing your points-earning strategy .

Step 10: Get additional help

If all of this overwhelms you (we get it, really), there are services available to help speed the process along. The popular service HitchSwitch will let you submit basic information online to autofill all the forms you'll need to change your name. Along with the auto-filled forms, the company will provide instructions for completion and how to submit each application. For any steps that have to be submitted via mail, HitchSwitch will even include the address to which the application needs to be sent.

Additional reporting by Caroline Lascom.

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How to Change Your Name After Your Wedding

It doesn't have to be a headache if you know what to do.

travel name change marriage

Photo by Chris & Ruth Photography

In This Article

In today’s world, changing your last name after your wedding can feel less like a “must-do” and more like a personal choice. There’s no right or wrong way to proceed, but many couples look forward to taking the leap because it confirms the united front of their marriage from its very beginning. 

“I personally think it symbolizes a union of two people who love each other very much,” expert Colie Christensen says of the decision.

Legally updating your last name admittedly isn’t quite as fun as designing your wedding bouquet or deciding on your signature cocktail , but if you go into the process of understanding what to expect it can be less of a headache. Ahead, we’ve compiled all the necessary steps to changing your last name, including the most important documents to compile, the order in which to handle things, answers to frequently asked questions, and many expert tips for making the cumbersome process a little more streamlined. 

Meet the Expert

  • Colie Christensen is the founder of NewlyNamed , which offers personalized name change kits that can save hours of time while navigating the name-changing process. She is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 
  • Jamésa Alexander is the founder of Jayne Heir Wedding and Events . She is based in the Washington, D.C., area.

How to Change Your Name in 14 Steps

Make a list of every place your given name appears. It's time to officially change your last name!

1. File for Your Marriage Certificate

In all the chaos (and the magic!) of the wedding day, it can be easy to overlook completing the legal paperwork—especially if a friend is serving as your wedding officiant or you’re conducting a self-uniting ceremony . But don’t forget to obtain the proper signatures on your marriage license so that you can proceed with the crucial first step of changing your last name: obtaining your marriage certificate . 

“The marriage license is the document that provides the couple with authorization to legally wed, but the marriage certificate is the document certifying that a couple is legally married,” explains wedding planner Jamésa Alexander. “It serves as proof of marriage, and is obtained after the license has been filed at the local courthouse of the county in which the couple legally wed.”

It is typically the responsibility of your officiant to file for the marriage certificate. The number of days after the wedding the officiant has to file the certificate varies from state to state, but you’ll want to do it as soon as possible. “I recommend the first business day following the ceremony,” says Alexander. That said, a couple may opt to file for the certificate themselves because it presents a logical opportunity to take on step two in the name-changing process: obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate.

2. Obtain Certified Copies

Almost everywhere you’ll need to officially change your last name will require proof of your marriage in order to accept the name change. That’s where certified copies of your marriage certificate come in. While the original version of your marriage certificate will likely stay on file with the county you married in, the county can provide you with goverment-issued duplicates that will be accepted by other government entities and financial institutions as official proof of your marriage. These can be purchased through the county clerk’s office where you filed your marriage certificate.  

“I recommend obtaining at least three copies of your marriage certificate,” says Alexander. “Keep one copy  in a safe place and use two copies for the entities that will need it to update your marital status and name change.” 

3. Update Your Social Security Card

Your Social Security number is a unique nine-digit number used for identification and tax purposes. “Every federal and state entity links your identity to your name on file with the Social Security Administration,” says Christensen, so this is the first place you’ll need to update with your new name. “If the name on your SSA records doesn’t match the name you’d like on your new driver’s license, your new driver’s license will be denied. The same goes with your passport.” 

 You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person. (To find your nearest Social Security office, click here .) If you plan on applying in person, you can expedite the process by filling out the application in advance. There is no charge for updating your Social Security card, but you’ll need to bring the following documents along for the appointment:

  • Proof of name change. If you’re simply taking your fiancé(e)’s last name, a certified copy of your marriage certificate will do the trick.
  • Proof of citizenship. A valid passport, your birth certificate, or a certified copy of your birth certificate will work.
  • Valid photo identification. This can be a driver’s license, unexpired passport, military I.D., or state-issued I.D. card. The I.D. will have your original last name, and that is totally fine.
  • Your current Social Security card. (You’ll keep the same number after your card is replaced.)

If you are not a U.S. citizen but will become a permanent U.S. resident after your wedding, this link will provide more information about the documents needed for your next steps in the social security process.

4. Get a New Driver’s License or I.D.

“In order to update your bank account, credit cards, investment accounts, etc., you will most likely need to show a photo I.D. in your new name,” explains Christensen. That’s why, after updating your Social Security card, the next place to change your name is on the form of I.D. you use the most in everyday life. For most people, this is your driver’s license, but a state or military-issued I.D. also works. 

Wait at least 24 hours after changing your name with Social Security to change your name on your driver’s license. This will give federal systems enough time to update the change so that it can then be confirmed at the state level. Better yet: wait until you have your new Social Security card in hand so that there can be no questioning it. 

Changing your name on your driver’s license must be done in person, so budget time to visit the DMV and, while you’re there, also get a new photo taken. Most states consider a name change to be part of the renewal process, so you’ll want to fill out the license renewal paperwork in advance to save time on your trip. Be sure to bring the following with you to the DMV:

  • Your new Social Security card, or your receipt from the Social Security office. 
  • Proof of address, if required in your state. (This could be a bill or bank statement, insurance documents, a lease, or mortgage documents.)
  • A certified copy of your marriage certificate. (This will be returned to you.)
  • Multiple options for payment. Some offices do not accept credit cards, so you’ll want to have cash or a checkbook on hand in case.

5. Update Your Passport

If you’ll be heading out on an international honeymoon shortly after the wedding, it’s best to wait until after you’ve returned home from the trip to change your name on your passport. “The I.D. you’re traveling with has to match your boarding pass,” says Christensen. “If you have any travel booked in your given name, you won’t run into any issues as long as the name on your passport matches the name on your airline ticket.” 

 A name change on a passport is considered a correction, and the change needs to be applied for by mail. Use the U.S. Department of State’s interactive tool to help you select the proper form for your circumstances, then mail the below to the National Passport Processing Center:

  • Completed DS-5504 or DS-82 form
  • A certified copy of your marriage certificate
  • Your current passport
  • A check for the fees, if necessary. Make the check payable to “The U.S. Department of State,” and include your full name and date of birth in the memo line on the front of your check.

“If your most recent passport was issued less than 12 months [prior to the requested change], you will be able to update your passport to your new name for free,” says Christensen. “If your passport was issued more than 12 months ago, it will cost you $130.”

6. Update Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Your new passport will come with a new passport number, and you’ll need to provide that number to the Global Entry offices in order for your account to stay valid. Unfortunately, this update cannot be done online, and you will need to visit a local Global Entry Enrollment Center in order to make the change. 

After the in-person visit, you will retain your same Global Entry number, which will now be linked to your new passport. If you’d like to receive a new Global Entry card with your new last name, you can order one online through your account, but it is not entirely necessary. (What matters most is the digital data linking your passport number to your Global Entry number.) 

“If you receive TSA PreCheck through your Global Entry membership, your TSA PreCheck membership will be updated automatically after you update your name with Global Entry,” says Christensen. If you have TSA PreCheck but not Global Entry, call 855-347-8371 or submit an online query to begin the name change process.

It’s best to change your name on your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport all at once and back-to-back. To ease stress during the process, wait until after you’ve caught up on any work or personal projects you put on hold during the wedding or honeymoon before tackling these tasks. 

7. Change Your Name on Your Bank Account

Each bank will handle this process differently. Some will ask for an in-person appointment, while others may allow you to mail in or upload documents, but they will all require legal proof of your name change. Thankfully, the required supporting documents will be things you’ve already obtained: a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your new Social Security card, your new driver’s license or state-issued I.D., etc. Once the update is complete, be sure to order a new debit card and checks bearing your new last name. 

8. Change Your Name on Your Credit Cards

As with banks, different credit card companies will have different processes for updating your new last name, and most will likely request supporting documentation confirming the legal name change. Call the customer service phone number listed on the back of each of your credit cards to determine next steps. 

9. Update Your Insurance

To avoid any unintentional lapses in coverage, update all of your insurance policies (home, health, auto, etc.) with your new last name as soon as possible. Different providers will have different procedures, but count on them asking to see your updated I.D. and/or a certified copy of your marriage certificate to validate the claim. 

Because marriage is considered a “major life event,” you can be placed on your spouse’s health insurance, or vice versa, without having to wait for an open enrollment period. To avoid any headaches, be sure your name has been legally changed with Social Security and on your driver’s license or state-issued I.D. before combining coverage.

10. Update Major Independent Payments

This includes your mortgage, utility companies (gas, electric, water), car payments, student loans, etc. Most of these updates can be made under your account info in an online portal.

11. Update Your Work HR

“Notify your Human Resources department of your name change so they can update your payroll and employer-sponsored benefits programs such as health insurance and 401(k),” says Collie.

12. Make the Announcement Professionally 

If email is your main source of communication at work, send an email from your updated address to all of your regular contacts letting them know that you’ll be using the new email address featuring your new last name going forward. Set email from your old email account to automatically forward to your new email account for six months to one year. Anytime someone writes to your old account, reply to them from your new account. 

 Adjusting your email signature for a period of time can also help contacts grow accustomed to using your new last name. Christensen recommends signing your name as “FirstName NewLastName (OldLastName)” for at least six months after you marry. If, for example, your name is Jazelle Williams, and you marry Erik Ford, you’ll change your email signature to “Jazelle Ford (Williams).”

13. Update Social Media Channels 

Take the same “FirstName NewLastName (OldLastName)” approach to the name line on your Facebook, Instagram, and other social media accounts, and leave it up for about six months. If you’re turning your original last name into your new middle name, you may also opt to permanently adjust the name line to “FirstName OldLastName NewLastName.” Either approach will give followers ample time to adjust to your new last name.

14. Update Loyalty Programs and Autopay Accounts 

This includes streaming services such as Spotify and Netflix, as well as rewards accounts with grocery stores and chains such as Sephora or Ulta. Updates to these accounts can typically be handled online, and likely will not require a certified copy of your marriage certificate to validate the change.

FAQs About Changing Your Last Name 

Ahead, find all the answers to common name-change questions.

When Should I Change My Last Name? 

“Your marriage certificate doesn’t expire, so you can actually wait as long as you’d like before starting the name change process after you get married,” says Christensen. “The best time to start the name change process is after you return from any scheduled travel in your given name.”

What Should I Do With my Original Last Name? 

Whatever you want! Many people opting to take their spouse’s last turn their original last name into their middle name. While there is sentimental value in this approach, it also has practical benefits. Down the line, you may interact with a business or entity that still has your original last name on file. Having your original last name as part of your new legal name might help smooth any bumps in the process.

Will the Process Be Different if I’m Hyphenating My Last Name? 

No. “Hyphenating your last name is considered a traditional marriage last name change in all 50 U.S. states, so the process is the same as if you were taking your spouse’s last name,” says Christensen.

Will The Process Be Different If I’m Choosing an Entirely New Last Name? 

Yes. “If you’d like to create an entirely new last name, you will need to obtain a court order through your county courthouse first,” says Christensen. Once that court order has been obtained, you can proceed with the steps outlined in this article. 

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Updating or Correcting Your Documents

We issue secure documents you may use to establish your identity and immigration status or authorization to accept employment in the United States. These documents include your personal information, such as your full legal name, date of birth, country of birth, gender, and A-Number. This page provides information on how to update and correct the information on your documents.

If you want to update or correct your U.S. passport, see the State Department’s Change or Correct a Passport webpage. If you want to update your Social Security card, see the Social Security Administration’s Make Changes to Your Record webpage. If you want to update your driver’s license or non-driver identification card, refer to your local motor vehicle authority (PDF) for more information.

If you received your document from USCIS with an error that is not your fault (for example, USCIS made a typo when issuing your notice or document), you may submit a service request to address the error (select the Typographic Error option).

Alternatively, see below for information on how to request a replacement.

There is no fee if the request for correction is due to USCIS error.

Did your personal information change, and would you like to update your USCIS-issued document? For instance, if you recently changed your name, gender, or both, you may want to update your USCIS-issued document to reflect these changes.

If you are scheduled for an interview with USCIS, you may update your information at the time of your interview.

If we send you a Request for Evidence (RFE) asking for updated information, follow the instructions in the RFE.

Otherwise, see the table below for more information on how to request a change.

Name Change

If you would like to update the name reflected on your document, you must provide sufficient evidence of your name change, such as a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or other vital document record. For more information, see USCIS Policy Manual Volume 12, Citizenship and Naturalization, Part K, Certificates of Citizenship and Naturalization, Chapter 4, Replacement of Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization .

Gender Change

As of March 31, 2023, you do not need to provide supporting evidence to change the gender listed on your immigration documents, with a limited exception. If you want to update your gender information on a Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship, you must still provide the required supporting documentation of the change, as listed in the Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document instructions (PDF, 261.78 KB) . For more information, see USCIS Policy Manual Volume 12, Citizenship and Naturalization, Part K, Certificates of Citizenship and Naturalization, Chapter 4, Replacement of Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization .

Information on Requesting a Change by Document Type

The table below provides information on how to request a biographic change on a specific document.

How to Change Your Name After the Wedding: 2023 Guide

Navigate the name-changing process after marriage seamlessly. Our comprehensive guide offers step-by-step instructions for a smooth transition.

Changing your name after marriage? Use this name change checklist so you don’t miss a step, including the time required for each document.

There are more things to do after getting married than getting those thank you cards mailed on time. (Kudos if you’ve already checked that off!) Changing your name after marriage might be one of them. While this may feel like a daunting task, it’s much simpler than you’d expect once you get the ball rolling. That’s where our handy guide comes in, compiling all the necessary steps to change your name after marriage and even the time commitment for each.

First things first, you’ll need to have a certified copy of your marriage certificate on hand. Once you have that, you can work your way through the steps listed below to cover the most important bases.

Head straight to our printable name change checklist , or jump to a different section below:

  • Get a copy of your marriage certificate
  • Apply for a new Social Security card
  • Apply for a new driver’s license
  • Update your passport
  • Update your car title and registration
  • Notify your employer
  • Notify the United States Postal Service (USPS)
  • Update your voter registration information
  • Update your bank accounts and other financial accounts
  • Update other personal accounts

Now, let's get into it!

1. Get a Copy of Your Marriage Certificate

Time commitment: 20 minutes

Changing your name after marriage first requires a certified physical copy of your marriage certificate. Not to be confused with your marriage license , which is the legal document obtained prior to your ceremony, your marriage certificate is a different document that verifies when and where you were legally married.

You should’ve received your official certificate when your marriage license was issued. For name-changing purposes, however, you should use a certified copy so you can hold onto the original.

A certified copy has a raised seal and can’t be created yourself. Instead, simply call the clerk’s office where your license was filed to request a copy (or two for good measure). Once you pay a small fee ($5-$20), your certified copy will be processed and mailed to you in a few business days.

Team Z tip: While you can technically use your original marriage certificate for name-changing purposes, have a few copies made instead so you can have the original on file.

2. Apply for a New Social Security Card

Time commitment: 1 afternoon

how-to-apply-for-new-ss-card

Before you can change your name anywhere else, you’ll need to apply for a new Social Security card. Head to the Social Security Administration (SSA) website and fill out the application for a new Social Security card . Your Social Security number won’t change, but your legal name will.

Since you can’t submit your application online, you’ll need to mail your completed form to your local Social Security office or apply in person to receive your new card within 10 business days.

Here are the materials you’ll need to apply for a new Social Security card:

  • Valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID card, military ID, etc.)
  • Proof of name change (certified copy of your marriage license)
  • Proof of citizenship/residence (valid passport or birth certificate)
  • Completed SS-5 form (your application)

For more information, view the SSA’s official instructions for how to apply for a new Social Security card.

Team Z tip: Your passport fulfills both the proof of identity and proof of citizenship requirements, so you might only need one document.

3. Apply for a New Driver’s License

how-to-update-drivers-license

Once you have your new Social Security card, head to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to apply for an updated driver’s license (or state-issued ID card). The documents you’ll need to apply vary by state, but plan to bring the following documents:

  • Your new Social Security card
  • Current driver’s license
  • Proof of name change (a certified copy of your marriage certificate)
  • Proof of address (bank statements or mortgage documents)

Be sure to follow the instructions on your local DMV website to clarify which documents are required in your state.

4. Update Your Passport

passport-update-checklist

If you’re planning to travel outside of the country ( destination honeymoon , anyone?) you’ll need to update your passport. If you’ve had your passport for less than a year, you can do this for free—otherwise, expect to pay a fee of $130.

Here are the materials you’ll need to update your passport:

Completed application form: You'll need one of these three, depending on when your passport was issued or expired

  • Completed DS-82 form (if your passport was issued more than a year ago)
  • Completed DS-5504 form (if your passport was issued less than a year ago)
  • Completed DS-11 form (if your passport has been expired for over five years, you’ll use this form to apply for a new passport)
  • Your current U.S. passport
  • Proof of name change (a certified copy of your marriage license)
  • Valid passport photo (2”x2” color photograph of yourself stapled to your application)
  • Applicable fee (make checks payable to “U.S. Department of State”)

Complete the application form and mail it along with the required documents. If you’re applying for a brand-new passport with the DS-11 form, keep in mind this must be submitted in person at your local office. Find more thorough instructions on the Travel.State.Gov website .

5. Update Your Car Title and Registration

In some states, you may be able to update your car title and registration at the time you update your driver’s license, but most states require you to visit separate departments. Head to your state’s DMV website for accurate instructions on how to update your car title and registration. Each application is unique to the state you’re in, but be prepared to provide information on your vehicle and a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

6. Notify Your Employer

Time commitment: 15 minutes

Don’t forget to let your employer know about your name change. Simply contact your company’s HR department to begin the process.

7. Notify the United States Postal Service (USPS)

While changing your name with the USPS isn’t required, you'll still want to update your new address if you’ve moved after marriage. You can do this easily online .

8. Update Your Voter Registration Information

Time commitment: 30 minutes

Updating your voter registration is easy. Simply fill out and mail the National Voter Registration Application and mail it to the address for your state listed in the State Instructions portion of the application.

Be aware of these exceptions in the following states:

  • New Hampshire doesn’t accept this application—you’ll need to visit your local election office in person.
  • Wyoming doesn’t allow you to apply by mail—you must apply in person at your local election office.
  • North Dakota doesn’t have voter registration, so no action is needed.

9. Update Your Bank Accounts and Other Financial Accounts

Time commitment: 1-2 hours

Most banks will require you to visit your local branch office in person to update your name on your bank accounts and credit cards. You’ll need to bring your updated driver’s license (or passport) and your marriage certificate. This appointment is also a good time to request new credit cards reflecting your name change, along with a new book of checks if needed.

In addition to checking and savings accounts, take care of any other financial accounts you may need to update, including:

  • Retirement accounts
  • Investment accounts
  • Credit cards (if separate from where your savings and checking accounts are)
  • Mortgage loans
  • School loans

If you plan on adding your spouse to your account or opening a joint bank account , you’ll both need to appear at the appointment.

Team Z tip: Once you’ve changed your name with your bank, don’t forget to update any online payment accounts like PayPal, too.

10. Update Other Personal Accounts

Time commitment: Ongoing

Once you’ve gotten the major name change updates out of the way, you can tend to any other updates you may want to make. Your name is listed in more places than you’d think, so it may take some time to remember what needs updating. That’s OK—just update as you go!

Here’s a quick look at other potential accounts to update:

  • Utilities accounts
  • Home mortgage information
  • Cell phone/TV/internet accounts
  • Personal email and social media accounts
  • Alumni associations, professional clubs, and other organizations
  • Legal documents if you’re a business owner
  • Health care providers
  • Will and testament

Printable Name Change Checklist

Now that you know how to change your name after marriage, use our printable name change checklist to keep track of your progress!

download-button-name-change

Plus: Name Change Instructions by State

Find official name change instructions and forms by state below.

  • Alabama name change
  • Alaska name change
  • Arkansas name change: Name change takes place at time of marriage license application; no additional form required
  • Arizona name change
  • California name change
  • Colorado name change
  • Connecticut name change
  • D.C. name change
  • Delaware name change
  • Florida name change
  • Georgia name change
  • Hawaii name change
  • Idaho name change
  • Illinois name change
  • Indiana name change
  • Iowa name change
  • Kansas name change
  • Kentucky name change
  • Louisiana name change
  • Maine name change
  • Maryland name change
  • Massachusetts name change
  • Michigan name change
  • Minnesota name change
  • Mississippi name change
  • Missouri name change
  • Montana name change
  • Nebraska name change
  • Nevada name change
  • New Hampshire name change
  • New Jersey name change
  • New Mexico name change
  • New York name change
  • North Carolina name change
  • North Dakota name change
  • Ohio name change
  • Oklahoma name change
  • Oregon name change
  • Pennsylvania name change
  • Puerto Rico name change
  • Rhode Island name change
  • South Carolina name change
  • South Dakota name change
  • Tennessee name change
  • Texas name change
  • Utah name change
  • Vermont name change
  • Virginia name change
  • Washington name change
  • West Virginia name change
  • Wisconsin name change
  • Wyoming name change

While the steps to change your name after marriage aren’t complex, it can take some time to work your way through the process—but don’t let all the steps stress you out. Take advantage of our printable name change checklist to make changing your name after marriage a breeze!

FAQs About Changing Your Name After Marriage

Still have questions about how to change your name? Find answers below.

What Is the First Thing to Do to Change Your Name?

For changing your name after marriage, the first thing you should do is get a copy of your marriage certificate—you’ll need this legal document in order to change your name.

Is It Expensive to Change Your Name?

Most steps of the name change process will require a small fee, and they can add up fast. The most expensive part of the process may be updating your passport, which typically costs $130 (or more if you need it expedited).

Is There a Deadline for a Name Change After Marriage?

No, there’s no deadline to change your name after marriage, and your marriage license doesn’t expire, either. You could wait five years before deciding to change your name after marriage, and the process would be the same.

Even more answers

  • How to Get a Marriage License in Georgia
  • Delaware Marriage Laws
  • How to Get a Marriage License in Louisiana
  • Illinois Marriage Laws
  • How to Get a Marriage License in Tennessee
  • How to Get a Marriage License in Michigan
  • How to Change Your Name After Marriage
  • How to Get a Marriage License in Texas
  • New York Marriage Laws
  • How to Manage Your In-Laws' Expectations for Your Wedding
  • A Guide to Marriage Licenses
  • Arizona Marriage Laws

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How to Change Your Name After Your Wedding

Steps needed to legally change your name after marriage, jul 6, 2022.

travel name change marriage

Congratulations on your recent marriage! If you’re taking your new spouse’s last name, you may be wondering how to navigate the legal name change process. Even if you’ve obtained a marriage license with your new name, there are still several more steps to complete before your name change can be considered official. Here’s where to start:

Gather Your Marriage Documents

Before you can update your identification or travel documents, you’ll need to gather your original marriage license and certified copies. During the name change process, certified copies of the marriage license will act as proof of the name change itself. If you’re unsure how to obtain certified copies, you can contact the county clerk’s office where your original license was filed. Boundless also has a detailed guide on how to get a copy of your marriage certificate for immigration purposes here .

Update Your Social Security Card

After you’ve gathered the certified copies of your marriage license, you’ll need to let the U.S. government know the new name you’d like to go by. The first identification document you can change to reflect your new last name is your Social Security card. You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person at a local Social Security office . Whichever method you choose, you will need to fill out an application for an updated card and show documents proving your identity, citizenship, and reason for the name change. If you’re a foreign-born U.S. citizen or immigrant, you can learn what documents apply to your specific situation here .

Change Your U.S. Driver’s License

After you’ve completed the application for an updated Social Security card, you’ll be able to obtain an updated U.S. driver’s license in your new name. Getting a new driver’s license must be done in person at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Each state has different requirements, so you’ll want to check your state’s DMV website to confirm which documents you’ll need to provide, how to schedule a license appointment, and more.

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Update Your Travel Documents

Updating your travel documents so they match your other forms of identification is another important step in the name change process after marriage. If you’re a U.S. citizen, the process to update your passport varies depending on your specific situation and how long your current passport has been valid. The U.S. Department of State processes all passport changes — you can learn about which forms and documents to submit for your new passport on the State Department website . If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to contact the appropriate government agency in your home country to obtain an updated passport with your married name.

A Simpler Way? Name Change Services

If you’re looking to simplify the process or obtain updated IDs right away, there are name change services that help customers complete each of these steps at one time. Services such as HitchSwitch and NewlyNamed help to expedite your name change with pre-populated government forms and step-by-step filing instructions. Both services are specifically designed for marriage-based name changes and offer personalized kits that include all of the federal and state forms you may need to complete the process successfully.

Boundless — for people who want the expertise of an immigration lawyer, not the price tag.

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My personal information has changed. How do I update my information so that I can continue to receive TSA PreCheck®?

If you are a member of the TSA PreCheck® Application Program, please contact the enrollment provider you applied with. Click here for the enrollment provider contact information to make changes to your name, address, or other information contained in your records. You will be provided information regarding documentation needed to process the change.

If you change your name and do not update your TSA PreCheck membership to match the new details, you will not be able to use your TSA PreCheck benefits when traveling until the name change process is completed.

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How to Handle Global Entry Name Changes

Anya Kartashova

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Whether you got married, underwent a transition to match your gender identity or simply don’t like your given name, you can apply for a legal name change. When it comes to travel, your legal name must match your documents, including a passport, a frequent-flyer account and a Global Entry card.

Although we’re not here to help you with the former two ( at least not in this article ), let’s discuss how to request a Global Entry name change.

Do you need an appointment to change your name with Global Entry?

Remember the lengthy waiting period for the first Global Entry application? Thankfully, you don’t have to go through that again when requesting a name change.

The process is much easier because you don’t have to make an appointment as you did for your enrollment interview. Simply show up to an enrollment center during business hours and bring your new passport, a legal name change document and the original Global Entry card with you for the officer to verify your identity. Feel free to call your closest enrollment center for a complete list of documents you should bring.

If you’re coming back from a trip abroad and there’s an enrollment center at the arrival airport, you can complete a name change as a walk-in as long as you have a conditional approval. Just make sure to have the necessary documents on you.

» Learn more: How to get TSA PreCheck for free

travel name change marriage

How to request a Global Entry name change

Because Global Entry is for low-risk travelers, it’s important to make sure that your identity is up to date. If you’ve changed your legal name, make sure to update it in the Global Entry system before your next trip.

To update your passport information, log in to your Trusted Traveler Programs account. From there, select “Update Documents.” On the next page, select “Update Passport,” and you’ll have the option to edit your personal information. Submit the changes for a review.

In the case of a name change, you’ll have to visit a Global Entry enrollment center in person to complete the name change request.

Note that the name change request itself is free. However, if you want to receive a new Global Entry card, you’ll have to pay $25 for a replacement.

Upon approval, your name change will be effective immediately, and you can utilize both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck lines with your new ID. Note that Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck, which lets you go through a dedicated security line and save time at more than 200 U.S. airports.

» Learn more: Is Clear worth the cost?

How to renew Global Entry for free

Some travel cards reimburse the cost of the Global Entry enrollment ($100 for five years) in the form of a statement credit. You can use your travel card’s benefit to enroll yourself, a friend or a family member.

Depending on the card, you can get a new credit available to use every four to five years. The following travel cards reimburse the cost of enrolling in Global Entry:

Aeroplan® Credit Card .

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® .

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card .

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card .

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card .

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card .

United Club℠ Infinite Card .

United℠ Explorer Card .

United Quest℠ Card .

U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card .

Terms apply.

Existing Global Entry members are eligible to start the renewal process one year before the expiration date. If your renewal doesn’t get processed in time, you have up to 24 months to use your benefits as long as you submit a request for a renewal before your membership expires.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Does your Known Traveler Number change when you change your name?

No. Conveniently, your Known Traveler Number stays the same when you update your passport information or request a name change, so there is no need to rush and update your frequent-flyer accounts.

» Learn more: The guide to Known Traveler Numbers

Is it easy to sync my Global Entry membership with a new passport?

If you’re getting a new passport because of a name change, you’ll want to take a few extra steps to connect it properly with your Global Entry membership. Here are some tips.

Start the process right away. Updating your passport information can take time, so if you have a trip coming up, make sure to request a change earlier rather than later to be able to use the Global Entry kiosks.

Remember to bring the documents confirming your new name. This includes your Global Entry card, your new U.S. passport with your new name and your official legal name change document. This can be a marriage certificate, a divorce decree or a court order.

Pay the right way to save money. If a renewal requires payment, use a credit card that reimburses Global Entry fees — like one of the cards mentioned earlier — to make sure the renewal cost is essentially free to you.

» Learn more: How to get Global Entry

Can you travel with your maiden name passport?

Yes, you can travel with your maiden name on your passport.

If you got married or divorced and changed the name on your ID but not your passport, you can still travel internationally. You can use the current passport, but you have to be careful during the booking process.

Make sure that the name on your flight overseas matches the name on your passport. It’s also worth mentioning, if you collect airline miles, that the name on your frequent-flyer account must remain the same as well for you to earn rewards. Naturally, if you want to use the Global Entry perks, that name must match your passport, too.

So, if you haven’t changed your name on your travel documents, you can still travel under the name printed on your passport.

» Learn more: Tips for couples to maximize travel rewards

If you need to request a Global Entry name change

You can fill out the new details online, but note that you still have to visit an enrollment center to solidify the name change in the Trusted Traveler Programs system. No appointment is needed, but make sure to grab the necessary documents to verify that you are who you say you are. Although inconvenient, the process shouldn’t take long.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

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travel name change marriage

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  • Travel Tips

Passport Name Change After Marriage

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Eolanda Monaghan

  • Plan Your Trip
  • Sustainability

passport-name-change-after-marriage

Introduction

Getting married is a joyous occasion filled with love and celebration, but it also comes with administrative tasks, such as changing your name on legal documents. If you’re a newlywed looking to change your name on your passport after marriage, this article is here to guide you through the process.

Updating your passport with your new name is essential if you plan on traveling internationally. It ensures that your identification matches the name on your plane ticket and other travel documents, preventing any potential complications or delays during your trip.

The name change process for your passport can seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a straightforward and hassle-free task. In this article, we will outline the step-by-step process of changing your name on your passport after marriage, highlighting important documents and requirements along the way.

Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to note that the name change process may vary depending on your country of residence or citizenship. In this article, we’ll be focusing primarily on the United States passport name change process, but many of the principles discussed can be applied in other countries as well. It’s always a good idea to consult with your country’s passport authority or consulate for specific instructions.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the step-by-step process of changing your name on your passport after marriage. This comprehensive guide will ensure that you have all the necessary information and resources to make the process as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Understanding the Name Change Process

Before you begin the process of changing your name on your passport after marriage, it’s important to understand the requirements and procedures involved. This step will give you a clear overview of what to expect and help you gather all the necessary documents.

The name change process may vary depending on your country, so it’s crucial to research the specific requirements for your jurisdiction. In general, here are the key points to keep in mind:

  • Timing: It’s best to wait until after your wedding ceremony to start the name change process. Many countries require a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of your name change. Allow yourself enough time to receive the certificate before initiating the name change.
  • Eligibility: Typically, the name change process is available to individuals who are legally married. However, some countries may have additional criteria or restrictions, so make sure to confirm your eligibility before proceeding.
  • Consistency: Ensure that your name change request is consistent across all your legal documents, including your passport, driver’s license, and social security card. Consistency will help avoid any confusion or discrepancies in your identification.
  • Validity: Keep in mind that the name change will only be reflected on your new passport. If you have any existing visas in your old passport, they will remain valid until their expiration. It’s a good idea to carry both passports when traveling internationally.

Understanding these key aspects of the name change process will help you navigate the following steps with confidence and clarity. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the requirements and guidelines provided by your country’s passport office or embassy to ensure a smooth transition to your new name on your passport after marriage.

Step 2: Gathering the Required Documents

Now that you have a clear understanding of the name change process, it’s time to gather all the necessary documents before proceeding with your passport name change after marriage. Having the required documentation on hand will help streamline the application process and prevent any delays or complications.

The specific documents you will need may vary depending on your country and passport authority, but here are some commonly required documents:

  • Marriage Certificate: This is a crucial document that serves as proof of your marriage and your name change. Ensure that you have an official certified copy of your marriage certificate. If it’s not in English, you may need to have it translated and notarized.
  • Proof of Identity: In addition to your marriage certificate, you will need to provide proof of your current identity. This typically includes your current passport, driver’s license, or national ID card.
  • Passport Photos: Most passport applications require recent passport-sized photos. Check the specific guidelines provided by your passport authority to ensure your photos meet the required specifications.
  • Form of Payment: Be prepared to pay the applicable fees for your passport name change. This can usually be done using a debit or credit card, money order, or cashier’s check. Check with your passport authority for accepted payment methods.

It’s essential to have all these documents ready and organized before moving on to the next steps. Make sure to keep copies of all your original documents for your records.

In some cases, additional documents may be required, such as proof of address, utility bills, or other forms of identification. Consult your passport authority’s website or contact them directly to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

Gathering the required documents is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and efficient passport name change after marriage process. By being prepared and organized, you’ll be one step closer to updating your passport with your new name and embarking on your future travel adventures.

Step 3: Completing the Passport Application Form

Once you have gathered all the required documents, the next step in the passport name change process is to complete the passport application form. This form provides the necessary information for updating your name on your passport after marriage.

The passport application form can typically be found on your country’s passport authority website or obtained in person at a passport acceptance facility. Here are some key points to keep in mind when filling out the form:

  • Personal Information: Fill in your personal information accurately and carefully. This includes your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and current address. Ensure that the information matches the details on your supporting documents.
  • Name Change Details: In the appropriate section, indicate that you are applying for a name change after marriage. Provide the required information about your previous name and your new name as reflected in your marriage certificate.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Fill in the details of your emergency contact, such as their name, relationship to you, and their contact information. This is important for the safety and security of your passport.
  • Additional Information: Depending on the application form, you may be asked to provide additional information about your travel plans, occupation, or any previous passport-related issues. Answer these questions truthfully and to the best of your knowledge.
  • Signature: Sign and date the form where indicated. Be sure to review the entire form for accuracy before signing.

Once you have completed the application form, double-check all the information for accuracy and make any necessary corrections. Mistakes or inconsistencies may lead to delays in processing your passport name change request.

In addition to the application form, you will also need to submit any supporting documents as required by your passport authority. This may include your marriage certificate, proof of identity, passport photos, and any other specific documents mentioned in the application guidelines.

By carefully completing the passport application form and providing all the necessary information, you will be one step closer to obtaining your new passport with your updated name after marriage.

Step 4: Updating Your Social Security Information

After completing the passport application form and submitting the necessary documents, it’s time to update your social security information to reflect your new name after marriage. This step is crucial as your social security records need to align with your passport and other official identification documents.

Here’s what you need to do to update your social security information:

  • Complete the Application: Fill out an application for a social security card name change. This form can be found on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website or obtained in person at a local SSA office.
  • Gather the Required Documents: Along with the application, you will need to provide proof of your identity, such as your current passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. You will also need to submit a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of your name change.
  • Submit the Application: Submit your completed application and supporting documents to your nearest SSA office either in person or by mail. If you choose to mail your application, make sure to send it via certified mail with a tracking number.
  • Receive Your Updated Social Security Card: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive a new social security card with your updated name. This process typically takes about 10 to 14 business days.

It’s important to note that updating your social security information may have additional requirements or processes specific to your country or region. Refer to your country’s social security administration website or contact them directly for detailed instructions.

Updating your social security information ensures that your identification records are consistent across all official documents. This step is crucial for a seamless transition to your new name on your passport and other legal documents after marriage.

Step 5: Visiting the Passport Acceptance Facility

Once you have completed the necessary paperwork and updated your social security information, the next step in the passport name change process is to visit a passport acceptance facility. These facilities are designated locations where you can submit your application and supporting documents in person.

Here’s what you need to know about visiting a passport acceptance facility:

  • Find the Nearest Facility: Use your country’s passport authority website to locate the nearest passport acceptance facility. This may be a post office, clerk’s office, or other authorized location. Make sure to check their operating hours and if an appointment is required.
  • Bring all Required Documents: Gather all the required documents, including your completed application form, supporting identification, passport photos, and any additional documents specified by your passport authority. It’s also a good idea to bring copies of your original documents for reference.
  • Submit Your Application: When you arrive at the facility, present your application and supporting documents to the passport agent. They will review your materials, verify your identity, and confirm that all necessary documents are included.
  • Oath and Signature: At the acceptance facility, you may be required to take an oath or affirmation confirming the truthfulness of the information provided in your application. You will also sign the application form in the presence of the passport agent.
  • Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable passport fees at the acceptance facility. The fees may vary depending on your country and the type of service you choose, such as expedited processing or additional pages in your passport. Acceptable forms of payment will depend on the facility, so be prepared with cash, credit card, or other accepted payment methods.

During your visit to the passport acceptance facility, make sure to ask any questions you may have and clarify any doubts about the passport name change process. The passport agent is there to assist you and ensure a smooth application experience.

Once your application is accepted, it will be sent for processing. The timeline for processing may vary, but typically, you can expect to receive your new passport with your updated name within a few weeks.

Visiting the passport acceptance facility is a crucial step in the passport name change process. It allows for in-person verification of your identity and submission of your application, ensuring that everything is in order for the issuance of your new passport.

Step 6: Paying the Application Fees

As you go through the process of changing your name on your passport after marriage, one important step to accomplish is paying the application fees. These fees cover the cost of processing your passport name change application and issuing your new passport.

Here’s what you need to know about paying the application fees:

  • Fee Amount: The fee amount will vary depending on your country and the type of passport service you choose. For passport name changes after marriage, you will typically be required to pay a standard application fee. Additional fees may apply if you opt for expedited processing or other special services.
  • Accepted Payment Methods: Check with your country’s passport authority or the specific instructions provided on the application form to determine the accepted forms of payment. Common payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, money orders, and cashier’s checks.
  • Payment Timing: Some passport authorities may require payment at different stages of the application process. It’s important to follow the instructions provided and pay the required fees at the designated time. Failure to do so may result in delays or rejection of your application.
  • Keep Payment Proof: After making your payment, make sure to keep a copy of the payment receipt or confirmation for your records. This will serve as proof of payment in case of any issues or inquiries related to your application.

When paying the application fees, it’s important to double-check that you are paying the correct amount and using the accepted forms of payment. Any discrepancies or errors in the payment process may result in processing delays or complications in your passport name change request.

Be aware that passport fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest fee schedule on your country’s passport authority website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

By promptly and correctly paying the application fees, you ensure that your passport name change after marriage process continues smoothly, and you can look forward to receiving your new passport with your updated name.

Step 7: Tracking Your Name Change Application

Once you have submitted your passport name change application, you may be eager to know the status of your application and when you can expect to receive your new passport. The good news is that many passport authorities provide a tracking system that allows you to monitor the progress of your application. Here’s what you need to know about tracking your name change application:

  • Tracking Options: Check with your country’s passport authority to see if they offer an online tracking system for passport applications. This system typically provides updates on the status of your application, including when it is received and when it is approved.
  • Application Reference Number: During your application submission, you may receive an application reference number. This number is unique to your application and is often required to access the tracking system. Keep this reference number in a safe place, as it will help you track your progress.
  • Timeline for Updates: The frequency and timing of updates may vary depending on the passport authority. Some authorities update the tracking system at each stage of the application process, while others may provide more general updates at key milestones.
  • Patience is Key: It’s important to remember that the processing time for passport applications can vary. Factors such as workload, seasonal demand, and current events may impact processing times. Exercise patience and allow sufficient time for your application to be processed.
  • Contacting the Passport Authority: If you have concerns or questions about the status of your application, contact your country’s passport authority using the contact information provided on their website. They will be able to provide you with more specific details regarding your application.

Remember to respect the privacy of your personal information when using the tracking system. Ensure that you are on the official website of your country’s passport authority and take precautions when entering any personal details or reference numbers.

By using the tracking system provided by your passport authority, you can stay informed about the progress of your name change application. This will give you peace of mind and help you plan ahead for any future travel arrangements.

Step 8: Receiving Your New Passport

After completing the necessary steps in the passport name change process, the exciting final step is receiving your new passport with your updated name. Here’s what you need to know about receiving your new passport:

  • Processing Time: The processing time for passport applications can vary depending on your country and the current workload of the passport office. It’s important to be patient and allow sufficient time for your application to be processed. Check with your country’s passport authority for estimated processing times.
  • Delivery Method: Once your new passport is processed, it will be delivered to you using the delivery method you selected during the application process. Common delivery methods include standard mail, registered mail, or courier services. You may be able to track the delivery status of your passport using the provided tracking number.
  • Check Your Information: When you receive your new passport, carefully review the information on it to ensure that your name is correctly spelled and reflects your desired name after marriage. If you notice any errors or inconsistencies, contact your passport authority immediately to rectify the issue.
  • Keep Your Old Passport: If your old passport is still valid and contains valid visas, it’s a good idea to keep it in a safe place as a backup. Some countries may require you to present both your old and new passports if you have valid visas in the old one.
  • Plan for Future Travel: Now that you have your new passport with your updated name, start planning your future travel adventures with confidence. Make sure to update your travel documents, such as plane tickets and hotel reservations, to match your new passport details.

Receiving your new passport with your updated name is an exciting moment. It signifies the successful completion of the passport name change process and allows you to travel with a document that reflects your new marital status and name.

Remember to keep your passport in a safe and secure location at all times. It’s a valuable document that grants you the freedom to explore the world and should always be protected.

Congratulations on completing the passport name change process, and enjoy your future travels with your newly obtained passport!

Congratulations! You have now reached the end of the passport name change process after marriage. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you have successfully navigated the administrative tasks and documentation required to update your passport with your new name.

Changing your name on your passport after marriage is an important task that ensures your identification aligns with your legal documents. It allows you to travel internationally without any complications or delays.

Throughout this process, you have gained an understanding of the requirements, gathered the necessary documents, completed the passport application form, updated your social security information, visited the passport acceptance facility, paid the application fees, tracked your name change application, and finally received your new passport with your updated name.

With your new passport in hand, you can confidently embark on your future travel adventures, knowing that your identification reflects your new marital status and name. Remember to keep your passport in a secure place and update your travel documents as needed.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements and processes may vary depending on your country of residence or citizenship. Therefore, always refer to your country’s passport authority or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

We hope that this comprehensive guide has been helpful in navigating the passport name change process after marriage. Wishing you smooth journeys, cherished memories, and a lifetime of happiness as you embark on new adventures with your new passport!

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Global Entry Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility for global entry, is criminal history a disqualifier for global entry.

Global Entry is a risk-based approach to facilitate the entry of pre-approved travelers. Applicants may not qualify for Global Entry participation if they:

  • Provide false or incomplete information on the application;
  • Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges, including outstanding warrants;
  • Have been found in violation of any customs, immigration or agriculture regulations or laws in any country;
  • Are subjects of an ongoing investigation by any federal, state or local law enforcement agency;
  • Have been denied for the purchase of a firearm;
  • Have received a criminal pardon from any country;
  • Are inadmissible to the U.S. under immigration regulation, including applicants with approved waivers of inadmissibility or parole documentation; or if they
  • Cannot satisfy CBP of their low-risk status or meet other program requirements.

What can I do if I was denied because of a prior firearm purchase denial?

You can visit the FBI website for additional information ( https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/nics/national-instant-criminal-background-check-system-nics-appeals-vaf ).

  • To challenge your firearm denial, please visit https://www.edo.cjis.gov/
  • To submit a challenge through the mail, please mail your request to:

FBI CJIS Division Attn: Criminal History Analysis Team 1 BTC 3 1000 Custer Hollow Road Clarksburg, WV 26306

(When submitting a challenge via mail, include your NICS Transaction Number (NTN) or State Transaction Number (STN). Failure to include these numbers will delay processing.)

Can I join Global Entry if I am not a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident?

TTP works with countries around the world to provide foreign nationals with access to the Global Entry Program.  There may be additional requirements you must meet depending on our country of citizenship.  To find current foreign partner agreements and if additional requirements must be met, select an International Arrangement and your country of citizenship. 

Are all U.S. visa classifications eligible for participation in Global Entry?

If your country has a bilateral trusted traveler arrangement with CBP, you may participate in Global Entry provided you are not entering the U.S. under one of the following visa categories:

  • C-1 - Alien in Transit
  • C-2 - Alien in Transit to United Nations
  • C-3 - Foreign Government Official In transit
  • H-1C - Registered Nurse
  • H-2A - Agricultural worker
  • H-2B - Unskilled worker
  • H-2R - Returning H-2B
  • H-3 - Trainee
  • K-1 - Fiancé of U.S. Citizen
  • K-2 - Child of K-1
  • K-3 - Spouse of U.S. Citizen
  • K-4 - Child of K-3
  • M-1 - Vocational student
  • M-2 - Spouse/child of M-1
  • N-8 - Parent of SK-3
  • N-9 - Child of N-8, SK-1, SK-2, SK-4
  • Q-1 - Participant in an International Exchange Program
  • Q-2 - Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Principal
  • Q-3 - Spouse and Minor Children of Q-2
  • S-5 - Witness/Informant
  • S-6 - Witness/Informant
  • S-7 - Family members of S-5, S-6
  • T-1 - Trafficking victim
  • T-2 - Spouse of T-1
  • T-3 - Child of T-1
  • T-4 - Parent of T-1
  • T-5 - Sibling of T-1
  • U-1 - Criminal Activity Victim
  • U-2 - Spouse of U-1
  • U-3 - Child of U-1
  • U-4 - Parent of U-1
  • U-5 - Sibling of U-1

Using Global Entry

What do i do if the global entry processing technology states "see officer for assistance".

You must report to a CBP officer at the nearest staffed CBP passport control booth. You do not have to get back in line. The CBP officer at the passport control booth will review your documents, determine the reason for the referral and either release you from there or refer you to "secondary" for additional processing.

How is the arrival of the Global Entry Mobile App going to improve travelers' experience at airports?

The Global Entry Mobile App will allow members to validate their arrival into the U.S. on their iOS or Android device prior to entering the Federal Inspection Services area which will expedite their processing time.

Do Global Entry benefits allow head-of-the-line privilege at U.S. airports without Global Entry technology?

Head-of-the-line privilege is only available at U.S. airports that have Global Entry. Head-of-the-line privilege is reserved for program members if the processing technology is unavailable, if a member gets referred to a CBP officer, and at the exit points.

As a U.S. lawful permanent resident, which document do I use with the Global Entry processing technology?

U.S. lawful permanent residents must use their I-551 permanent resident card with the Global Entry processing technology.

Must I declare food items or products when using Global Entry?

Yes. You must declare all agricultural products that you bring into the United States. Failure to declare agricultural products can result in up to $10,000 in fines and penalties .

As a Global Entry member, am I required to use the Global Entry Program when entering the United States?

No. Global Entry members can choose not to use the Global Entry processing technology and can be processed by CBP officers.

My travel companions (children, spouse, or co-travelers) are not Global Entry members; can they come through the Global Entry lane with me?

No, only Global Entry members can use the Global Entry lanes.

What do I do if I have a disability and need assistance during my interview for Global Entry?

After you have submitted your application and scheduled an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, contact the Global Entry Enrollment Center where your interview is scheduled to request a reasonable modification or auxiliary aid or service to complete the Global Entry application process.  Requests for a modification, aid, or service should be made as soon as possible and prior to the date of an interview to allow sufficient time for making the appropriate arrangements at the interview location.

Partner Expedited Travel Programs

I am a u.s. citizen enrolled in global entry, what benefits do i have for expedited entry.

U.S. Citizens enrolled in Global Entry may use the Smartgate system when entering Australia and/or New Zealand without registration. U.S. Citizens may apply for the Dutch Privium program, the Korean SES program, Panama's Global Pass, Taiwan's e-Gate, Germany's EasyPASS, or the Mexican Viajero Confiable program for expedited entry into those countries. Additional fees and enrollment interviews may apply.

Where can I find more information about TSA PreCheck Expedited Screening?

The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) PreCheck allows for expedited airport screening at TSA checkpoints in specific airports. Global Entry members are eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits.

For more information about TSA PreCheck.

I am a Korean citizen; can I apply for Global Entry?

Yes, Korean citizens may apply for Global Entry. Korean citizens must first enroll in the Smart Entry Service (SES) program operated by the Korean Immigration Service.

As a Korean citizen, what is the process to become a Global Entry member?

Korean citizens submit Global Entry applications through the  Korean Government's website . After submitting the Global Entry application, Korean applicants must then create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account. Applicants will log into the account and pay the $100 Global Entry application fee. Once conditionally approval status is granted, applicants will be invited to schedule a Global Entry interview through their TTP account at an enrollment center or via Enrollment on Arrival when arriving to the U.S. on an international flight complete the enrollment process.

Does the Korean SES program have a minimum age requirement?

Yes. To participate in Global Entry, Korean applicants must be at least 17 years of age.

Can U.S. citizens apply for the Korean SES program?

Yes. U.S. citizens may apply for the Korean SES program. Applications for SES may be submitted through the TTP website. Once conditionally approved in the SES program, applicants must visit an SES enrollment center (in Korea) to complete the enrollment process and pay the fee. The SES fee for U.S. citizens is $100 (this is in addition to the $100 Global Entry fee).

If you have additional questions or for more information on the Trusted Traveler Programs.

Global Entry Membership Information

Where do i find my trusted traveler membership number.

Find your Trusted Traveler's membership number by logging into your Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account. The membership number is listed toward the top of the page. The membership number, also known as your PASS ID, is also on the back of Trusted Traveler cards.

I am a current Global Entry member. How do I update my passport information?

All Global Entry members can update their passport information through their TTP account. Click on "Update Documents." If the passport update involves a name change, you must visit a Global Entry enrollment center to update your information.

How do I obtain a copy of my FBI Identity History Summary?

If you would like a copy of your Identity History Summary, you may submit a request to the FBI. The FBI offers three options for requesting your summary or proof that a summary doesn't exist.

For more information, please read the How to Challenge and How to Obtain Your FBI Identity History Summary brochure. 

How do I challenge my FBI Identity History Summary?

If you believe your Identity History Summary contains inaccurate or incomplete information, you may request a change or correction by contacting the agency or agencies that originally submitted the information to the FBI. However, most states require that changes of Identity History Summary information be processed through their respective state centralized agency (State Identification Bureau). For the State Identification Bureau listing refer to: www.fbi.gov/checks . 

Renewing Global Entry Membership

How do i renew my global entry membership.

You become eligible to renew your membership one year prior to program expiration. If you submit a renewal application before your membership expires, you will be able to continue to use benefits up to 24 months after your membership expiration date.

Follow these steps to renew Global Entry membership:

  • Log onto the TTP website ( https://ttp.dhs.gov ).
  • If you don't have a login.gov account, you will be directed to login.gov to create an account first then you will be prompted to setup your TTP account profile. On the profile page, you will need to associate the account with your PASSID (membership number). See the back of your Trusted Traveler card or your approval letter.
  • From your Dashboard, select the Renew button on your Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST program membership section. You must declare your citizenship (if you are a US Citizen, you declare "U.S.").
  • Select the program that you wish to renew. You may select to renew another program for which you are eligible. However, remember that depending on the program you choose, your benefits may change. On the next page, acknowledge the program requirements.
  • Follow the guidelines provided on the Membership Renewal page.
  • When you have updated all information in the application, on the Final Review page, click Confirm and Continue in each section. At the bottom of the page, click Save and Continue .
  • On the Certify page, answer Yes or No to "Do you certify?"
  • Select Next . The Purchase Summary page will display.
  • Fees are for application processing and are non-refundable. Check the box under the total application fee to agree and proceed.
  • Select Pay Now . The online payment page displays.
  • After payment, you will be returned to your TTP Dashboard.

Will I need to be interviewed again when I renew my program membership?

An interview for program membership renewal may not be necessary. Once you submit your renewal application and fee, check your TTP account periodically for updates on what actions are necessary to complete the renewal process. You will receive an email when your membership status changes.

Global Entry Cards

Who receives global entry cards.

Only U.S. Citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, and Mexican nationals are issued Global Entry cards.

How are Global Entry cards used?

CBP accepts Global Entry cards for lawful U.S. entry at land and sea ports of entry. Global Entry cards have radio frequency identification, which enables their use at SENTRI and NEXUS expedited travel lanes entering the U.S. Global Entry cards are not valid for entry into Canada via the NEXUS lanes and kiosks. Global Entry cards are not accepted at Global Entry kiosks, which require passports or U.S. lawful permanent resident cards. Global Entry card holders must follow all program rules for SENTRI and NEXUS when using the card at land and sea ports of entry.

How do I get a Global Entry card for use with SENTRI or NEXUS travel lanes?

CBP began issuing Global Entry radio frequency identification (RFID) cards on July 12, 2011, to new Global Entry members who are U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and Mexican nationals (who do not already have a SENTRI card) at no additional cost.

Must I obtain a Global Entry card?

No, it is not necessary to obtain a Global Entry card to continue using Global Entry an airport. A card is only required for expedited entry at the SENTRI and NEXUS lanes coming into the United States.

When will I receive my Global Entry card?

New members will receive their Global Entry card 2-4 weeks after approval for Global Entry.

How will I receive my Global Entry card?

If you have a U.S. address, the card will be mailed there. If you do not have a U.S. address, it will be sent to your designated U.S. point of contact or to a Global Entry enrollment center that you designate.

How do I activate my Global Entry card prior to use at NEXUS/SENTRI lanes?

Activate your card within 30 days of receipt or you will be unable to use your card at the Trusted Traveler lanes. To activate your card, log into your TTP account.  After you sign in, click on the Activate Membership Card button under the Program Membership(s) section on the Homepage.

How do I replace a lost, stolen or damaged NEXUS, SENTRI or Global Entry card?

You can request a replacement card by logging into your TTP account and selecting Manage Membership. Next select Request for Global Entry Card. A $25 fee is charged for the replacement card. By requesting the replacement card, the original card will be deactivated and no longer functional.

For Global Entry Members at NEXUS/SENTRI Lanes

How do i add nexus to my existing global entry membership.

Log into your  TTP  account. From your Dashboard click on the "Add Trusted Traveler Program." Select the checkbox next to the NEXUS option. You will need to provide additional information and answer questions; (some of these questions are very similar). Once all the application information is entered/ corrected, certify your application and pay the fee. Applicants seeking to use NEXUS to enter Canada must complete an enrollment interview with the Canada Border Services Agency.

How do I register my vehicle before using the Global Entry card in SENTRI lanes?

Global Entry members who wish to drive their vehicle in the SENTRI lanes, must register their vehicle with CBP and schedule an appointment at a SENTRI enrollment center to conduct a 7-point vehicle inspection.

How do I register my vehicle before using the Global Entry card in NEXUS lanes?

There are no additional requirements for a member to use the NEXUS lanes coming into the U.S. However, Global Entry cards are not valid for entry into Canada via the NEXUS lanes and kiosks; travelers must apply separately for NEXUS.

What does it cost a Global Entry member to get the NEXUS or SENTRI benefit?

If you register your vehicle in SENTRI as part of your initial Global Entry application, there is no fee. If you wish to register your vehicle after your initial application, you must pay a $42 registration fee for a CBP vehicle inspection at a SENTRI enrollment center.

For NEXUS and SENTRI Members using Global Entry

As a current nexus or sentri member, how can i use global entry.

All current NEXUS members, U.S. citizens, and U.S. lawful permanent residents who are SENTRI members, are eligible to use Global Entry once they provide fingerprints and document information to CBP. If CBP already has your fingerprints and document information on file, you can use Global Entry without further action and at no additional cost. If you are a Mexican national in SENTRI, you must apply for Global Entry through your TTP account. For additional Global Entry benefit information, log on to your TTP account.

Can I use my Global Entry card with the Global Entry processing technology?

No, when you use the Global Entry processing technology, you will need to use your passport or U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident card, if required. Global Entry cards do not work when entering the U.S. by air.

Can I use my SENTRI card with airport Global Entry processing technology?

No, when you use the airport Global Entry processing technology, you will need to use your passport or U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident card, if required. The SENTRI cards do not work when entering the U.S. by air. 

Can I use my NEXUS card with the Global Entry processing technology?

The NEXUS card will be recognized by the Global Entry processing technology at Canadian Preclearance locations only. When using Global Entry at Canadian Preclearance locations you can use your passport, U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident card, or NEXUS card. You cannot use your NEXUS card with the Global Entry processing technology outside of Canadian Preclearance locations. At all other ports of entry, you will need to use your passport or U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident card. 

Who is eligible to apply for SENTRI?

Anyone with a travel document is eligible to apply for SENTRI.

How can I cancel an appointment within 24 hours of my appointment?

Contact the information center at 1 (877) 227-5511 to cancel or reschedule within 24 hours.

Children and Travel Companions

Do my global entry benefits extend to my travel companion(s) (children, spouse, or co-traveler) who is/are not part of the global entry program.

Global Entry benefits are member specific and cannot be extended to others.

Are children able to enroll in Global Entry?

Yes. Children may enroll in Global Entry. Minor children 18 years or younger are required to have parental or legal guardianship permission.

Can my child/children enroll in Global Entry if I am not a member?

Minor children that do not have a parent or legal guardian enrolled in Global Entry may enroll. A parent or legal guardian must give permission and must be present at the time of the interview.

Enrollment on Arrival (EoA)

Can i participate in eoa if i haven’t received my conditional approval yet.

No.  Applicants must have already completed the application through Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP)  website. and received a Conditional Approval notification to complete the EoA.

What do I do if I already have an interview scheduled at an Enrollment Center?

You can still participate in EoA upon arriving in the United States at an EoA eligible airport if you already have an interview scheduled. Simply proceed to the EoA CBP booth upon arrival at the CBP Federal Inspection Services area.  

How do I cancel my Enrollment Center appointment if I’m able to complete an EoA interview?

Your scheduled interview will be canceled automatically after you complete the Enrollment on Arrival process. No further action is needed on your part.

Can I participate in Enrollment on Arrival if I have a domestic flight that either departs, arrives, or connects through an EoA airport?

No. Only those who are entering the U.S. Customs and Border Protection area after arriving from an international flight can participate in EoA.

Individuals traveling through domestic airports may verify whether the airport has an Enrollment Center at which they may schedule an interview or can immediately accept conditionally approved persons to complete walk-in enrollments. You may verify the locations and Enrollment Centers’ hours of operation online through the Trusted Traveler Website .

Do I need to indicate my intent to participate in Enrollment on Arrival in my TTP account?

No.  A Global Entry conditionally approved applicant may simply arrive at an EoA booth in the CBP Federal Inspection Services area at a participating airport.

Will CBP reimburse me for adjusting my travel plans to travel through an EoA airport?

No. Traveling to an EoA participating airport is a decision of convenience for the applicant.

What if I’m traveling with a mixed party- some travelers being conditionally approved and others not? How do we proceed through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection area when we arrive in the United States?

This depends on the airport at which you’re arriving. Please check with a CBP Officer at the Enrollment on Arrival Port of Entry to determine if your complete travel party can utilize the EoA lane.

What materials/documents will I need to bring to my EoA interview?

To complete the interview via EoA, you must be in possession of the following documents:

  • A valid passport. If you travel using more than one passport, please bring them all to the interview so that the information can be added to your file.
  • Documents providing evidence of residency. Examples are: driver's license (if the address is current), mortgage statement, rental payment statement, utility bill, etc. This is not required for minors.
  • A permanent resident card (if applicable).

How soon after my EoA interview will I learn of my final decision?

The final decision notification timeline can vary.  Please monitor your email and check your TTP account for updates regarding the status of your Global Entry application.

When will EoA expand to other airports and under what criteria?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is currently planning to expand EoA to additional airports.  Travelers can review the EoA webpage on the CBP website for EoA expansion updates.

  • How to Change Your Name in NC After Marriage, Divorce & More

Smith Debnam Narron Drake Saintsing & Myers, LLP

This article reviews the process of changing your name after life events such as marriage and divorce and the process of changing your name for other reasons such as a person disliking their name, maybe for religious reasons, couples combining surnames to form a new one or gender identity issues.

What are the Common Reasons for Changing Your Name?

The most common reasons people change their name are due to marriage, divorce or death of a spouse. However, there are many other reasons people want to change their name such as they simply do not like their name; their name is difficult to pronounce; their name is too common or their name is too well known (i.e., celebrity); same sex partners sharing surname; couples combining surnames into one and issues related to gender identity.

What are the Required Steps for Changing Your Name

MARRIAGE After a person is married, all they need is a certified copy of his/her marriage license to legally change his/her name on things such as driver’s license, social security card and passport. It is best to wait at least ten (10) days after the ceremony to ensure the marriage license has been returned to the county Register of Deeds office.

DIVORCE When getting a divorce, a woman (or man) may apply to the clerk in the county he/she resides to change his/her name.

At the time of divorce, a woman may change her name to her maiden name; the last name (surname) of a prior deceased husband or the last name (surname) of a prior living husband if she has children who have that husband’s last name. If a man changed his name after marriage and is now getting divorced, he may change his name back to the last name (surname) he had before marriage.

The easiest way to accomplish a name change during divorce is to include a request for the change in the complaint for absolute divorce if you are the one filing for divorce. If your spouse is the one who filed the complaint for divorce, then you will need to assert a counterclaim for divorce and request that you be allowed to change your name as described above. The new name will be incorporated in the divorce judgment. If an attorney is handling the divorce for you make sure to tell your attorney that you want to resume use of your former name.

A person can still resume his/her former name after a divorce is entered by completing an Application/Notice for Resumption of Former Name and submitting it to the clerk of court in the county in which he/she resides. This form can also be used in the event of the death of a spouse. This form can be found at: Application/Notice for Resumption of Former

NAME PETITION CHANGE The first step in the process is to have a Notice of Intent to Change clocked in by a civil clerk in your county and posted on the Superior Court’s office bulletin board for ten (10) consecutive days. If the tenth (10 th ) day is on a weekend you must keep it posted until the next business day.

After your notice is posted for the required ten (10) days then you must complete and submit to the court the following documents:

  • Application for Name Change (must be notarized)
  • Two Affidavits of Good Character Signed by County Residents
  • FBI and State Bureau of Investigation Records Checks
  • Fingerprints

Applicants can visit the FBI and the North Carolina Bureau of Investigation websites for information on how to obtain a background check and/or fingerprinting.

Applicants will also need to be prepared to provide a birth certificate to the clerk of court when submitting the above documents. Please note that the clerk may ask for any additional information they determine to be necessary to completely review the name change application.

Once the documents are completed and submitted to the court, the clerk of court will determine whether there is good and sufficient reason to grant or deny the name change. If the clerk finds good and sufficient reasons have been presented for the change of a name, the clerk will issue an order changing the applicant’s name from the person’s true name to the name sought to be adopted. The clerk will issue a certificate documenting the name change and record the order on the special proceedings docket.

The clerk is responsible for forwarding the name change order to the state Vital Statistics office. If the person changing his/her name was not born in the state of North Carolina, the North Carolina vital statistics office will forward to the vital statistics office in the person’s state of birth. The clerk will also forward a copy of the order to the Department of Public Safety.

Requests to change a minor child’s name can be made by the child’s parents, guardians, or guardian ad litem. Changing a minor’s name requires the consent of both parents (if living) except under certain circumstances set forth in North Carolina General Statutes §101-2(d)(1-3).

https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/BySection/Chapter_101/GS_101-2.pdf

What Documents Must You Update/What Agencies to Notify When Changing Your Name

  • Driver’s License
  • Social Security Card
  • Veteran’s Benefits
  • Postal Service
  • State Benefits
  • Voter Registration
  • Update Bank Accounts/Financial Accounts
  • Request Credit Cards with a new name

How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Name in North Carolina

The fee for filing an adult name change application is $120.00.

The fee for filing an application for resumption of former name is $10.00.

What forms Are Required for a Name Change

Forms required for a name change can be found on the North Carolina Judicial Branch website:

https://www.nccourts.gov/documents/forms?contains=name%20change&field_form_type_target_id=242

Can you Be Denied a Name Changed

Yes, a clerk can deny a name change if the clerk finds that there are good and sufficient reasons to deny the applicant’s request. A registered sex offender is prohibited from changing his/her name.

How Many Times Can You Change Your Name

If doing an adult name change, you are only allowed to change your name once except you can resume your former name. Minor child name changes cannot be changed more than two times.

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DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.

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Indian Passport: Here’s how to change name and address online

Indian passport: here is a step-by-step guide on how one can rectify a misspelt name, change a surname, or update the address in the indian passport online via the passport seva system..

travel name change marriage

Passport Renewal Process 2024 India: The Indian passport is a vital document that serves as proof of identity, particularly during international travel. Updating one’s passport to change to the current address after a move and, similarly, correcting any inaccuracies, like misspelt names or changed surnames due to marriage, can enable one to maintain and ensure the accuracy of the passport details.

The process of updating details in an Indian passport involves several steps as per the regulations outlined by the Passport Seva system under the Ministry of External Affairs of India. To rectify a miss pelt name, change a surname, or update the address in the passport , an individual must apply for a passport re-issue.  Below are the steps outlined to change the name and address on the Indian passport online.

travel name change marriage

How to change name and address in an Indian passport online:

To change the name on a passport, individuals seeking to correct a misspelt name or update their surname must initiate a reissue process. 

Step 1: Begin by visiting the official Passport Seva website and selecting the ‘Register Now’ option to create an account.

Step 2: Log in using your registered ID and choose the ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport’ option.

Festive offer

Step 3: Fill out the application form with the necessary details.

Step 4: Proceed to pay the designated fee and schedule an appointment at your nearest Regional Passport Office (RPO) or Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

Step 5: Print the application receipt, which includes your application reference number (ARN), after completing the form.

Step 6: On the scheduled date, visit the nearest passport office with the original documents for verification.

Alternatively, you can download an e-form, fill it out, validate it, and save the file. Follow the aforementioned steps and upload the XML file to book an appointment with the passport office.

What are the documents required for the name change?

Here is a comprehensive list of documents required for various name change scenarios in a passport:

After marriage:

  • Marriage certificate (original and photocopy)
  • Self-attested photocopy of spouse’s passport
  • Proof of current address
  • Old passport with self-attested photocopies of the first and last two pages, including the ECR/Non-ECR page
  • Validity extension page and observation page in the old passport, if applicable

After divorce:

  • A certified copy of the divorce decree
  • Affidavit or deed poll on a non-judicial stamp paper

After re-marriage:

  • Proof of divorce from the previous husband or his death certificate
  • Husband’s passport copy (if available)
  • A self-attested copy of the marriage certificate

Other Circumstances:

  • Advertisements in two newspapers regarding the name change

What are the documents required for the address change?

Here is a list of documents needed to change the address in your passport:

  • Original passport
  • Copy of the online application
  • Copy of the payment receipt or challan
  • Proof of current address (e.g., Aadhaar card , utility bills, voter ID card)
  • A self-attested copy of the observation page by the passport issuing authority
  • Spouse’s passport (if the applicant’s current address matches the spouse’s passport address)

Please note that each scenario requires specific documentation to support the name and address change process in the passport. One can also refer to the official website to know the documents required for the re-issue of the Indian passport for specific reasons and learn more.

While it is not mandatory to change the name and address on the Indian passport, it is advisable to update the information to ensure accuracy and prevent any compliance issues.

2nd PUC Result 2024 Live Updates: The Class 12 Karnataka board exam results will be released at at the official website – kseab.karnataka.gov.in or kseab.karnataka.gov.in

Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board will announce the PUC 2 results on April 10 at 10 am. The exams were held from March 1 to 22, with 6.9 lakh students appearing. This year, the exams were held in 1,124 centres, and the results will be available on karresults.nic.in at 11 am.

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The Most Beautiful Stations on the Moscow Metro

travel name change marriage

You might have heard that there are some beautiful metro stations in Moscow. Soviet decorations, chandeliers, mosaic painting and statues are common in many of the stations. The good news is that the Moscow Metro does not cost a lot of money and many of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro are on the same line, so you can almost get on and off at each station to visit these. Over the New Year holidays, I had a free afternoon and decided to visit some of these stations. Check out what I found below…..

The main stations that you will want to visit are on the Number 5 line, also known as the Circle Line. An advantage of this line is that you can get to it very easily and quickly no matter where you are in Moscow. The announcements on the metro are in Russian as well as English so you don’t need to worry if your Russian language skills are not good.

If, like me, you arrive in Moscow via train from Kyiv , then you will arrive at a metro station which many Muscovites believe to be the most beautiful of them all…..

Kievskaya metro station was opened in 1954 and features white marble walls which curve upwards and have with large mosaics surrounded by a gold trim in a very classical style. The mosaics depict life in Ukraine and was designed by a Ukrainian who wanted to display Ukraine’s influence and contribution to Soviet Russia.

Kievskaya, one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro

Kievskaya, one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro

Soviet era artwork between the arches

Soviet era artwork between the arches

Mosaic with golden trim

Mosaic with golden trim

People carrying flags is a common theme

People carrying flags is a common theme

Going into battle

Going into battle

Belorusskaya

If you look at a map of the metro , you will want to go in a clockwise direction on the circle line. So you will want to get on the train going in the Barrikadnaya direction and not Park Kultury. Stay on this line until you reach the 2nd station, Belorusskaya. This station was built in 1952 and like Kievskaya also features white marble pylons and a plaster ceiling.

The ceiling features 12 mosaics in an octagonal shape depicting Belarusian life, while the tiling on the floor is said to resemble a Belarusian quilt. One of the passageway exits of the station has a statue called ‘Belarusian Partisans’ of three men wearing long coats, holding guns and carrying a flag.”

Belorusskaya metro platform

Belorusskaya metro platform

Belorusskaya metro platform

Soviet artwork on the roof

The hammer and sickle features prominently in the metro artwork

The hammer and sickle features prominently in the metro artwork

Three men carrying guns, holding the flag...

Three men carrying guns, holding the flag…

Mayakovskaya

To get to the next station, we need to change onto the green line (line 2) and go just one stop to the station of Mayakovskaya. This station has an art deco theme and, for some, resembles an elaborate ballroom. The columns are faced with stainless steel and pink rhodonite while the marble walls and ceiling have 34 mosaics with the theme “24-hour Soviet Sky. Apparently, Stalin resided here during the 2nd World War as the station was used as a command post for Moscow’s anti-aircraft regiment.

Mayakovskaya metro

Mayakovskaya metro

Mayakovskaya metro

24-Hour Soviet Sky mosaic

Bomber planes

Bomber planes

24-Hour Soviet Sky mosaic

It looks like planes flying over Red Square

Air-ship

Novoslobodskaya

It’s time to get back on the metro and return to Belorusskaya. At Belorusskaya, change to the circle line again and continue clockwise to the next station, Novoslobodskaya. With its 32 stained glass panels, this station reminds me of a church. The panels were designed by Latvian artists and are surrounded by a brass border.

Novoslobodskaya metro

Novoslobodskaya metro

The platform of Novoslobodskaya metro

The platform of Novoslobodskaya metro

The platform of Novoslobodskaya metro

Stained glass artwork

The golden trim around artwork is also very common

The golden trim around artwork is also very common

Stained glass artwork

Prospekt Mira

Back on the metro and again just one stop until our next station, Prospekt Mira. This station was originally called Botanichesky Sad after the nearby Botanical Gardens of the Moscow State University. The pylons are covered in white marble and decorated with floral bas-relief friezes. The ceiling is decorated with casts and several cylindrical chandeliers.

Prospekt Mira metro station

Prospekt Mira metro station

Notice the floral decoration

Notice the floral decoration

Komsomolskaya

On the metro once more and once more we are going just one stop to the next station – Komsomolskaya. This station is famous for its its yellow ceiling. The chandeliers in this station are huge. The photos below do not do this station justice.  For me, this station resembles a presidential palace.  You hace to see it for yourself to truly appreciate it.

Because of it’s location, this is one of the busiest stations in the Moscow metro as it serves three of the main train stations in the city – Leningradsky, Yaroslavsky, and Kazansky so be prepared for a lot of people.

Komsomolskaya metro

Komsomolskaya metro

The yellow ceiling seems to go on forever

The yellow ceiling seems to go on forever

Yellow ceiling and artwork

Yellow ceiling and artwork

One of the ceiling mosaics

One of the ceiling mosaics

Elektrozavodskaya

When you are ready to leave Komsomolskaya metro station behind, then get back on the circle line and go one stop to Kurskaya and change to the blue line (line 3) and go to two stops to the Elektrozavodskaya station. This station gets it’s name from a nearby electric light bulb factory and has a somewhat industrial but also futuristic style, with 6 rows of circular lamps (there are 318 lamps in total). I think this is one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro for how unique it is. The station was opened in 1944 after a delay because of the 2nd World War and features 12 marble bas-reliefs of the struggle on the home front during the war.

The Komsomolskaya metro station

The Komsomolskaya metro station

The struggles of war at home

The struggles of war at home

Fixing machinery

Fixing machinery

Hard at work

Hard at work

Making weapons

Making weapons

Building a tank

Building a tank

The struggles of war at home

Even the station sign is elaborate

Ploschad Revolyutsii

Back on the metro line 3 (but in the other direction), getting off at the 3rd stop – Ploschad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). This is located underneath the square in Moscow of the same name and is a short walk from Red Square in the city centre. It is the perfect place to end a visit around Moscow’s metro. The station features red and yellow marble arches with a total of 76 sculptures in between each arch. The sculptures are supposed to represent the people of the Soviet Union and include soldiers, farmers, industrial workers, children etc… I noticed a lot of people touching the golden chicken in the photo below as well as the show of the woman. I am assuming that this is for good luck.

Industrial worker

Industrial worker

Touch the chicken for good luck

Touch the chicken for good luck

Sculpture of the people of the Soviet Union

Sculpture of the people of the Soviet Union

Woman reading a book - touch the shoe for good luck

Woman reading a book – touch the shoe for good luck

In education

In education

Parent and child

Parent and child

These are some of what I think are the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro. Which ones are your favourite? Would you add any to this list?

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19 comments.

' src=

Kievskaya definitely caught me off guard. Didn’t know Moscow metro stations were THIS extravagant! Mayakovskaya is gorgeous too with the marble walls and mosaics. I might just need to book a flight over to admire all of these!

travel name change marriage

Do it! Kievskaya was my first introduction to the Moscow metro as I got an overnight train from Kyiv.

' src=

You know, in the States, all we ever hear is bad stuff about Russia. It’s nice to see other (and lovely!) dimensions of such a controversial place.

It’s the same in the UK which is why I prefer going to see somewhere and making up my own mind. It’s all ‘politics and bullshit’ as I say

' src=

I went to Moscow about 13years for Christmas and went to train stations, so I can see these amazing mosaics and chandeliers. I agree with you that are beautiful Stations for sure and I could of wandered around for days. I think Kievskaya is definitely my favourite out of them all and I even have some similar pictures as you.

I imagine Moscow would have been a little different 13 years ago but these stations have probably always looked beautiful

' src=

Food and Footprints

You chose some great stations for this write up! Beautiful details in these stations and would love to visit them sometime. Particularly like the Komsomolskaya station with that yellow ceiling!

Thank you very much. Komsomolskaya seems to be a lot of peoples favourite stations too

' src=

Sumit Surai

Wow! Without the text I would have thought them to be some museum or gallery.

I know exactly what you mean!

' src=

Rosie Fluskey

Wow, it is just stunning! How does anyone get to work with so much to look at. I’m surprised at the very bourgeois-looking Komsomolskaya station. I would have thought it was all too Tzarist looking, but then I haven’t been to Russia yet lol. This has just made me want to go more!

' src=

Wow, that’s a lot of artwork. I wonder how old some of these pieces are?

Generally most of the stations are from 1940-1960 approximately. The later stations are more functional than style.

' src=

My mother-in-law was in Moscow fifty years ago and still raves about the metro stations. So far, I could not imagine much. But now! The pictures are great and I think it’s almost a pity that this splendor is underground. But for every user of the Metro can enjoy a free trip to the world of art. Susanne

True. It is like having a free trip to an art museum/gallery. I hope that you can one day visit Moscow and see for yourself.

' src=

Oh wow, I would never have known that these were metro stations. The ceilings remind me of how you need to look up sometimes, even in the commuter rush!

It is true about life in general, we just go from A to B looking directly in front of us instead of around us

' src=

Wow, I would have never guessed that these were stations. The decor is so pretty and not one I’m used to seeing at metro stations. Love the ceiling at The Komsomolskaya metro station.

They certainly don’t look like metro stations. The ceiling there is one of my favourites too!

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Everyone in Japan will be called Sato by 2531 unless marriage law changed, says professor

Sato will become the only option by 2531, suggests modelling as part of campaign to overturn outdated law requiring spouses to have same surname

Japanese citizens will all have the same family name in 500 years’ time unless married couples are permitted to use separate surnames , a new study has suggested as part of a campaign to update a civil code dating back to the late 1800s.

The study, led by Hiroshi Yoshida, a professor of economy at Tohoku University, projected that if Japan continues to insist that couples select a single surname, every single Japanese person will be known as “Sato-san” by 2531.

Yoshida conceded that his projections were based on several assumptions, but said the idea was to use numbers to explain the present system’s potential effects on Japanese society to draw attention to the issue.

“If everyone becomes Sato, we may have to be addressed by our first names or by numbers,” he said, according to the Mainichi. “I don’t think that would be a good world to live in.”

Sato already tops the list of Japanese surnames, accounting for 1.5% of the total population, according to a March 2023 survey, with Suzuki a close second.

Some social media users wrongly assumed the study, first reported on Monday but published in March, was an April fools’ day prank, but Yoshida said he wanted it to give people pause for thought.

A nation of Satos “will not only be inconvenient but also undermine individual dignity,” he said, according to the Asahi Shimbun, adding that the trend would also lead to the loss of family and regional heritage.

According to Yoshida’s calculations, the proportion of Japanese named Sato increased 1.0083 times from 2022 to 2023. Assuming the rate remains constant and there is no change to the law on surnames, around half of the Japanese population will have that name in 2446, rising to 100% in 2531.

Couples in Japan have to choose which surname to share when they marry, but in 95% of cases, it is the woman who changes her name.

However, the picture would be different if Japan’s government submitted to growing pressure to allow married couples to use separate surnames.

The study contained an alternative scenario extrapolated from a 2022 survey by the Japanese Trade Union Confederation, in which 39.3% of 1,000 employees aged 20 to 59 said they wanted to share a surname even if they had the option of using separate ones.

Under those circumstances, Yoshida, whose study was was commissioned by the Think Name Project and other organisations that want to legalise the opportunity to select your surname, projected that by 2531, only 7.96% of the Japanese population would be named Sato, the Mainichi Shimbun reported.

Groups calling for a change in the law on married surnames hope their campaign will receive a boost from the prospect that Suzukis, Watanabes and, indeed, people called Yoshida – the 11th most common surname – could one day disappear.

While the government has allowed maiden names to appear alongside married names on passports, driving licences and residence certificates, Japan remains the only country in the world that requires spouses to use the same name.

Conservative members of the ruling Liberal Democratic party (LDP) say changing the law would “undermine” family unity and cause confusion among children.

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

United states map showing the path of the 2024 solar eclipse and specific regions of what the eclipse duration will be.

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

  • Pennsylvania
  • New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

  • San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
  • Austin, Texas
  • Waco, Texas
  • Dallas, Texas
  • Little Rock, Arkansas
  • Indianapolis, Indiana
  • Dayton, Ohio
  • Cleveland, Ohio
  • Buffalo, New York
  • Rochester, New York
  • Syracuse, New York
  • Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

Eclipse map of totality

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

United States map showing the percent of cloud cover in various regions of the eclipse path on April 8. The lakeshore region will be primarily affected.

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Map showing the path of the 2044 total solar eclipse from Greenland, Canada and parts of the United States.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

See the list of notable total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

When is the next total solar eclipse in the U.S.?

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

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Elektrostal Genealogical Records

Elektrostal birth & baptism records.

An index to and images of books recording the baptism, marriage and burial of around 1 million people. The records cover people of German extraction.

An index to over 170,000 various birth and baptism records, listing parents' names.

A small index to several-hundred-thousand records from select countries.

Elektrostal Marriage & Divorce Records

An index to more than 30,000 marriage records, including personal details, names of relations and particulars of marriage.

Elektrostal Death & Burial Records

A searchable database of over 1 million Jewish burials with photographs of the matzevot.

An index of around 100,000 death and burial records. The index may include names of relatives and details of the death.

Newspapers Covering Elektrostal

An index to over 2.1 million people mentioned in Associated Press stories, including name, subject, location, date and a reference to the article.

An index to around 500,000 Associated Press articles.

An index to and digital images of hundreds-of-thousands of world newspaper articles.

Elektrostal Immigration & Travel Records

A record of over 600,000 immigrants arriving in the United States; being predominantly those escaping the Irish famine. Records may contain numerous useful details, such as age or year of birth, native county and intended destination.

Abstracts of details found in passenger lists, passport records, correspondence and seaman records, which may list name, age, gender, birthplace, occupation, residence, destination, emigration date and more. Most passengers were traveling to North America.

Indexed images of over 400,000 obituaries of Germans from Russia who died in North America.

Transcripts of passenger lists recording over 500,000 Russians who arrived in New York. Includes ages, birthplaces and other details.

Elektrostal Military Records

An index to and images records detailing the incarceration of 1.34 million military personnel, civilians, diplomats, missionaries & merchant seamen who were held as prisoners of war. The records cover British prisoners held by foreign powers and non-British prisoners held by Britain.

Elektrostal Court & Legal Records

Created by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II to document German crimes during the occupation, the Soviet Extraordinary Commission compiled testimonial information gathered from the evidence of neighbors, eyewitnesses, and survivors.

Official reports relating activities of American interest in the Soviet Union, prior to World War II, including accounts of conferences, communist activities, living conditions, oil interests, trade unions, the railway, and collective farms. Other countries, including Germany and China are featured in some of the correspondence.

Elektrostal Directories & Gazetteers

A statistic and descriptive gazetteer of nations.

Useful for locating places, this searchable gazetteer gives brief details, latitude and longitude for more than 1.5 million features, places and regions throughout the world.

Elektrostal Cemeteries

Photographs and transcriptions of millions of gravestones from cemeteries around the world.

Elektrostal Obituaries

Elektrostal histories & books.

Over 7 million remembrances and historic details submitted by Ancestry members. Useful for local historians.

Over 60 million historic photographs and documents submitted to Ancestry. This rich collection contains many rare sources of interest to local historians and will be relevant to most genealogical research.

Elektrostal Occupation & Business Records

A database of cricket scores and players.

Pedigrees & Family Trees Covering Elektrostal

A searchable database of linked genealogies compiled from thousands of reputable and not-so-reputable sources. Contains many details on European gentry & nobility, but covers many countries outside Europe and people from all walks of life.

The lineages of Russian royalty and nobility, with biographical details and extracts from historic documents.

A compilation of lineage-linked family trees submitted by Ancestry users. The database contains over 2 billion individuals and is searchable by numerous metrics.

A searchable database of linked families. It largely covers royalty and nobility, but also contains actors, footballers and American presidents.

A collection of legacy trees submitted by Ancestry users containing nearly 400 million individuals.

Elektrostal Royalty, Nobility & Heraldry Records

Elektrostal church records, elektrostal maps.

An interactive index to thousands of maps covering the world, continents, countries and regions. The majority of maps cover Britain and Ireland.

Elektrostal Reference Works

A work which list the history and etymology of Jewish surnames found in the Ukraine, Belorussia, Bessarabia, Lithuania, and Russia.

A database containing variants of 100,000s of given names used by Jews.

Most Common Surnames in Elektrostal

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

IMG_5767

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

IMG_5859

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Screen Shot 2015-04-01 at 5.17.53 PM

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

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Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

IMG_5826

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

Mayakovskaya station

Mayakovskaya metro station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

IMG_5893

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

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January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

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December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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San Francisco city officials threaten lawsuit over Oakland airport potential name change

The new proposed name is 'san francisco bay oakland international airport'.

FOX Business’ Gerri Willis reports on how the security tech works and travelers’ opinions on the new change.

TSA expands its facial recognition technology to 30 US airports

FOX Business’ Gerri Willis reports on how the security tech works and travelers’ opinions on the new change.

Controversy is brewing in the East Bay as the city of San Francisco threatened to sue Oakland's port commissioners if they changed the airport name to "San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport."

On Monday, city officials sent a letter to the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners stating that the plans to use the term "San Francisco" in the renaming of Oakland's airport infringe on SFO's trademark.

Oakland is pushing for the airport's name change in an effort to lure more travelers to the city. However, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu said the city will take legal action if Oakland International Airport does not abandon the renaming plan that he feels will cause traveler confusion. 

NEW YORK, GEORGIA, CALIFORNIA AIRPORTS TOP WORLD'S BEST FOOD AND DRINK LIST FOR TRAVELERS

Curbside view of Oakland International Airport

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - JULY 24: A view of Oakland International Airports Terminal 1 in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, July 24, 2023. (Getty Images / Getty Images)

"In addition to the immense confusion and chaos the renaming would cause for travelers and consumers generally, this proposal also infringes on SFO’s trademark," said City Attorney Chiu. "We want to see the entire Bay Area thrive as a tourist destination and expand our offerings to visitors, but this proposal is not a legal or practical way to go about it. If Oakland moves forward with this proposal, San Francisco will pursue legal action to prevent misuse of our trademark."

SFO Airport Director Ivar. C Satero also echoed Chiu's concerns.

"We share the City Attorney’s concern that this proposed renaming of Oakland International Airport will cause confusion and frustration for the traveling public, especially when considering the large number of international passengers served at Bay Area airports," said Satero. "We support bringing a legal challenge, if necessary. I urge the Port of Oakland not to proceed with this proposal and hope they will work to find a solution that provides clarity, not confusion, for the travelers visiting the Bay Area."

In his letter, obtained by Fox News Digital, Chiu states that, given SFO’s long history with the name "San Francisco International Airport" (and previously "San Francisco Airport"), its high recognition in the marketplace, and its trademark status, the proposed new name will be very highly likely to cause confusion or mistake among consumers and the public generally. 

Chiu also stated that while the proposed new name is very likely to cause confusion and mistakes broadly, the problem will be particularly crucial for international travelers who may not speak or read English. Those international travelers make up a large portion of SFO’s consumer base, Chiu said. 

US AIRPORTS ADAPT TO TRAVEL SURGE BY EXPANDING USE OF TECHNOLOGY TO PROCESS PASSENGERS

A gate view inside the Oakland International Airport

Travelers are visible at a Southwest Airlines waiting area at Oakland International Airport, Oakland, California, May 28, 2021. (Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

In the last line of the letter, Chiu offers Oakland staffers to work with SFO staffers to work "collaboratively" on alternative names that wouldn't confuse people. 

The new name, if approved, would not change the airport’s code or visual branding, according to the Port of Oakland.

Oakland has been trying to improve its reputation as it has been overrun by crime, with several businesses closing their doors, even forcing some local businesses like In-N-Out and Wendy's, near the Oakland Airport, to flee. The city's last remaining professional sports team, the Oakland A's, is also on its way out. 

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The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners is scheduled to consider the renaming proposal at a public meeting on April 11 at 3:30 p.m.

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    Step 2: Get a Certified Copy of Your Legal Name Change Document. You'll need to have a physical copy of your legal name change document before updating any of your travel documents and programs. That means a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you can't find your official document, contact the county courthouse where your ...

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    Form DS-5504. A recent color photograph that adheres to required standards. A certified copy of your marriage certificate with a seal and the officiate's signature. However, if your current ID ...

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    Court order. In most cases, you must file a petition with your local court to change your name. To do so, you may need to file paperwork and appear before a judge to complete the process. Find your local government website and contact your circuit court to get information about how you can legally change your name.

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    Proof of name change. If you're simply taking your fiancé (e)'s last name, a certified copy of your marriage certificate will do the trick. Proof of citizenship. A valid passport, your birth ...

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    These documents include your personal information, such as your full legal name, date of birth, country of birth, gender, and A-Number. This page provides information on how to update and correct the information on your documents. If you want to update or correct your U.S. passport, see the State Department's Change or Correct a Passport webpage.

  12. How to Change Your Name After the Wedding: 2023 Guide

    9. Update Your Bank Accounts and Other Financial Accounts. Time commitment: 1-2 hours. Most banks will require you to visit your local branch office in person to update your name on your bank accounts and credit cards. You'll need to bring your updated driver's license (or passport) and your marriage certificate.

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    After you've gathered the certified copies of your marriage license, you'll need to let the U.S. government know the new name you'd like to go by. The first identification document you can change to reflect your new last name is your Social Security card. You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person at a local Social ...

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    This will ensure that you have the proper ID to board a plane. Plan a time to make the switch. On a good day, it takes about 5 weeks to receive a new passport so for frequent travelers, this can put a dent in plans. But if you have all of the right paperwork for your name change done, go ahead and book a flight (maybe for some non-essential ...

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    If you are a member of the TSA PreCheck® Application Program, please contact the enrollment provider you applied with. Click here for the enrollment provider contact information to make changes to your name, address, or other information contained in your records. You will be provided information regarding documentation needed to process the change.

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  20. Japanese people could all be called Sato by 2531, study warns ...

    Yoshida - whose family name ranks 11th most common - was commissioned by the "Think Name Project", a group demanding legal changes to allow couples to keep both their last names.

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  22. The Most Beautiful Stations on the Moscow Metro

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