Name change - advice

[tedfreeway 0]

Hi,

Seeking advice on name changing later on.

My fiance and I unfortunately went through the Texas service center and experienced delay after delay. As such, we had to keep pushing back our wedding plans and it became harder and harder for my friends and family from the UK to come. In the end we have decided to get legally married soon after I arrive in the States and then have a proper wedding ceremony next year where everyone can come. As such, we are not considering it our wedding until we go to the church with our family and friends next year. We do not want to wear wedding rings or have me change my surname until the ceremony next year.

Looking for some advice here -

If I don't change my name until next year, how difficult will it be in terms of green cards/ SSN/ immigration in general etc?

Any advice is much appreciated!

[Essiej 42]

I'm sorry, I don't have a answer. I really hope someone does. Cause I would like to know too !

I'm sorry, I don't have a answer. I really hope someone does. Cause I would like to know too !

[KayDeeCee 4,903]

The name you use on your forms for AOS is the name your EAD/AP and green card will come with. It will take months and cost you hundreds more to change the name on the green card after it is issued. You could wait and change it when you file for ROC a couple years down the road though.

Edited August 31, 2015 by KayDeeCee

[chaoticlogic 27]

It's up to you whether you want to change it after getting legally married or not. Whatever name you use to file your AOS is the name that will appear on everything and will cost money to change it in the future if you so desire. As KayDeeCee said, when you do Removal of Conditions, you could change it. (ROC is close to two years after you receive your green card.)

[tedfreeway 0]

Thanks so much for your advice! Much appreciated! I'm going to change it legally but just ask friends/family not to use it until we have our proper ceremony.