Changing Legal Name After Marriage

[Phillabuster 5]

Hey guys! Not sure if there are any transpeople or just people who have done this process in general on this board, but do you know if changing your legal name (first and middle) after marrying your fiancee can damage their standing in the US if you're importing them on a K1 Fiancee Visa?

I am a transman marrying someone from Australia, and I don't want me changing my name to affect her documents as she applies for a green card.

It says on some sites that changing your name doesn't affect previously-binding legal documents (ie- you can't escape loan repayment), but I'm wondering if that extends to stuff like marriage licenses as well. I really don't want to make her go through the trial of moving only to have her be deported.

I wouldn't ask, except the current wait time for a name change is way too unpredictable and ranges from 6 days to 6+ months. I'd prefer to not delay an already-lengthy visa process if we don't have to.

Thanks in advance!

[akihon 129]

I don't think it should be a problem as long as you provide name change documentation, but if there is a wait, I wouldn't risk the name change yet.

Edited March 11, 2016 by akihon

[Phillabuster 5]

Thank you for your help! I will be waiting as I don't want to delay the process. Thankfully, her government was able and nice enough to completely sponsor her name change and the documents should be ready soon. Much appreciated!