I-485 - which surname do we use for application?

[sjs87 27]

Hello all,

While I have not yet entered the US on my K-1 visa, I am trying to start filling out the Adjustment of Status paperwork ahead of time where I can. One question I have is this: Obviously I (the beneficiary) am the one applying for AOS, but which surname do I use? Obviously we want to file the AOS immediately after marriage, but by then I am not sure I would have, legally, taken on my spouse's surname by then.

I figure the name change is an entirely separate process.

Feedback is much appreciated!

[Hypnos 6,576]

If it is your intention to use your husband's surname as your own from this point onwards then start using it and use that name on your forms (be sure to list your maiden name under the "Other Names Used" sections).

Your marriage certificate will serve as proof of a legal name change in this situation.

[Lainie B 465]

If you are taking your husband's name you can start using it legally from the day you get married. There is no separate "name change process". The marriage certificate is the name change proof. Some marriage certificates will include the new name, some won't. It doesn't matter if it does or it doesn't, you can still use it as proof of your legal name change.

[sjs87 27]

Awesome, thanks for the info!!

[sjs87 27]

For the I-130 package, the VJ checklist (I presume is required by DHS) says you need 'proof of a bonafide marriage':

1. Documentation showing joint ownership or property; or 2. A lease showing joint tenancy of a common residence; or 3. Documentation showing co-mingling of financialresources; or 4. Birth certificate(s) of child(ren) born to you, thepetitioner, and your spouse together; or 5. Affidavits sworn to or affirmed by third parties havingpersonal knowledge of the bona fides of the maritalrelationship (Each affidavit must contain the full nameand address, date and place of birth of the person making the affidavit, his or her relationship to the petitioner ofbeneficiary, if any, and complete information and details explaining how the person acquired his or herknowledge of your marriage); or 6.

Any other relevant documentation to establish that thereis an ongoing marital union.

#1 isn't possible because he owns his house property

#2 we aren't leasing any property/houses

#3 when we apply for AOS, we won't yet have an official joint bank account

#4 we have no children together

#5 This seems like the best option?? Would we have friends and/or family write a letter on our behalf stating the bonafide relationship my new husband and I have?

#6 what other relevant documentation is there, besides a marriage certificate from the county where we will be married?

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

You do not send an I-130 when adjusting status from a K-1 visa. http://www.visajourney.com/content/k1k3aos

[sjs87 27]

So not to sound like a complete knob (too late for that, I know)... we are just submitting I-485?

PS: another stupid question... I am filling out I-485 form, and it asks for non-immigrant visa number. Which one is that?

[Hypnos 6,576]

Your nonimmigrant visa number is printed in red on your nonimmigrant visa in your passport.

[sjs87 27]

Thanks!!

(We were using a lawyer to do the start of this process, but we fired her, so now I have to come on here to ask a bunch of what seem to me to be silly questions.)

[sjs87 27]

One more question to confirm something...

On the above link to items for the I-485 application, the list mentions I-693 form (Medical Examination of Aliens Seeking Adjustment of Status); they clearly indicate that if the I-485 is filed within a year of my original overseas medical exam, then another one is not necessary. That said, do I have to include a copy of my medical results?

I know the results are in the sealed envelope from the consulate (currently); at the POE when I enter the U.S., do I get to keep the contents of this envelope? How will USCIS know, for the purposes of I-485, what my medical results are?

Thanks in advance for answering so many questions

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

You do not keep any of the forms that are in that sealed envelope. They will be sent to the USCIS. If you had all the required vaccinations marked off on a properly filled out DS-3025, then no need for a civil surgeon and I-693. Just send a copy of your DS-3025 > http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/428381-i-693-report-of-medical-examination-and-vaccination-report/?p=6206232

Follow the guide I linked above and send the I-485, I-864, G-325A, I-765, I-131 and all supporting documentation for those forms.