I-485

[jethro7 0]

I was wondering: If my wife had her name changed on our marriage certificate, does that mean we have to use her new name on the I-485 application, or can we keep using her previous name? I think it would be better to keep using her prior name, since it matches her passport/work authorization/social security card. Any legal experts out there? How binding is a name change on a marriage certificate - do we have to change all of her documents now?

[Kez/JWolf 6]

If she wishes to use your last name then she will need to change it with everyone.... and yes she should use her married name on AOS forms if that is the name she wants to use..

Passports and SSN can be changed..... better to make a choice now than leave it until later....

Kezzie

[zyggy 9]

I was wondering: If my wife had her name changed on our marriage certificate, does that mean we have to use her new name on the I-485 application, or can we keep using her previous name? I think it would be better to keep using her prior name, since it matches her passport/work authorization/social security card. Any legal experts out there? How binding is a name change on a marriage certificate - do we have to change all of her documents now?

When a female is married they have the option to either keep their former name or take the name of the husband.

What name you place on the I-485 should be the name that your spouse will be known by.. if she wishes to take your name, then that's the name to use on the I-485. If she wishes to keep her maiden name, she should put that name on the I-485..

It shouldn't be your decision (as the husband) and shouldn't be made solely on the matter of perceived convenience... It should be a personal decision for personal reasons...

Edited April 21, 2006 by zyggy

[Gatorfan 0]

Also, take note that if she decides to use her married name after she receivers her green card, then you have to file to have her green card replaced and pay $180 (I believe this is the amount, I could be wrong.)

Edited April 21, 2006 by Gatorfan

[motu 5]

Don't worry about the passport being in the maiden name (you can carry a wedding certificate to prove that she is who she says she is.) My wife has changed her lasl name and we intend to travel using her old passport till it expires. Good Luck