You should also submit copiespreferably certified copiesof these documents at the initial filing of your application. OR Endorsement of name change during the naturalization process Note: The name as on the Indian Passport will appear on the Renunciation Certificate since it is a surrender of an Indian passport. Mr. Bonus' naturalization papers would simply record the name change but not the reasons behind it. Citizenship for the Past 3 Years Prior to Filing Your Form N-400. It has historically been unwilling to correct prior errors found in documents like birth certificates or refugee processing documents. Once you get the documents changing your name, you can use it to change your name on other legal identity documents. The content on this site should not be relied on to reach conclusions about any persons specific situation. Another option involves going to court to legally change your name. The naturalization certificate shows your new legal name. USCIS does not offer the option of a name change with the Certificate of Citizenship. Ask at your USCIS interview if your ceremony can be held in front of a judge. How will I know what the decision is on the Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, I submitted? When you submit Form N-600 to ask for the Certificate of Citizenship, you must ask for the correction in a cover letter attached to the application. In the case of In re Application of Xiangjing Zhan, 424 N.J. Super. Evidence supporting the change may include proof of the same correction granted by USCIS to another family member, such as correcting the spelling of a shared last name. If "Janedoa Mixwell" in the above example had been able to send in proof that her father had his name corrected to "Maxwell," USCIS would have been much more likely to agree that her correct name was "Janedoa Maxwell.". Official Court Order for the change of first name or full name. If USCIS grants your application for citizenship, you can change your name if you attend a naturalization swearing-in ceremony in court. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, applying to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, the one that will be conducting your interview. If you're still in the planning stages, here's free, accurate, and up-to-date legal information on every step of the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship. Will USCIS approve my Form N-400 naturalization application once I pass the reading, writing, and civics portions of the naturalization test? This process does not happen in the California court system. CANADA, 5 Kenley Road If you fail any portion of these requirements, you will be retested during a new interview on the portion of the test that you failed (English or civics) between 60 and 90 days from the date of your initial interview. If you decide to get legal assistance, you can start here: Many people offer to help with immigration services. The layout is very straightforward, asking if you would like to change your name and, if so, what would you like your name to be. 2023 Berardi Immigration Law. Depending on where you live, your will follow your state's legal name change procedures. for informational purposes only and are not legal advice or counsel. If you want your name changed, your ceremonymustbe in front of a judge (usually in a courthouse). Official websites use .gov For more information, seeexceptions and accommodations. You will be given a citizenship certificate name change on your official Certificate of Naturalization. Can I legally change my name while my naturalization application is pending? 362, Milwaukee, WI 53202. Does USCIS make frequent changes to the questions on the naturalization test? You will need to pay the filing fee and the biometrics service fee. Are a naturalized citizen seeking a special certificate of naturalization for the purpose of a foreign country recognizing you as a citizen of the United States. You may not need to pay a fee if you correct your name during the naturalization process. To obtain a replacement of your naturalization certificate, please follow the instructions found here at www.uscis.gov or call (800) 375-5283 for additional information. So at theinterview, it's very flexible.From what I've seen, I've never had a problem.You just say, \"Oh I want to go back and not changeit. There is one catch. At the time of the interview, the USCIS officer will record the name change request and ask you to sign a name change petition, which USCIS files with a court before the judicial oath ceremony. One may change their name after naturalization by going through the courts, or by some operation of law such marriage or divorce. We look forward to working with you. There are a few restrictions about what you can choose for your new name; read about the rules in Name Change FAQ. USCIS has developed responses to several frequently asked questions related to the naturalization process and interview and test. If you dont see it, disable any pop-up/ad blockers on your browser. These are the basic steps to change your name during the citizenship (naturalization) process. Unless you are eligible for an exception to the English or civicsrequirements, you will be given two opportunities to meet the English and civics requirements. The evidence you send in will support your name change by showing that your name has been misspelled on your initial visa documents. Part 2, Question 4 of Form N-400 is specifically meant for this purpose. [3] In addition, an applicant who has legally changed his or her gender may apply for a replacement certificate reflecting the new gender. I want to change my name to something else.\" You do whateveryou want to do.Now one thing you have to be mindful for is that notevery USCIS field office does name changes.For example, in Los Angeles, they're pretty goodat doing name changes.And the reason is because when you do your old ceremony tochange your name, you have to have an officer of the courtthere that could confirm the name change. Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. Customer support is for technical and billing issues only and will not answer legal questions. However, if the USCIS denies this request during your interview, then you will need to request your name change after you receive your naturalization documents. The Court is unable to provide a copy of your naturalization certificate or any other documentation that certifies your citizenship. One way is by changing your name at the naturalization ceremony by filing Form N-565. This site provides general information on some commonly encountered immigration matters only and was created to allow you to more simply navigate your completion of immigration paperwork using online software. Privacy Policy | 2023 Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. Toronto, Ontario M5C 1C4 Citizenship? Automated eligibility quizzes were created using instructions, rules and regulations published by the USCIS and only indicate whether you meet minimum eligibility requirements to apply for the given immigration benefit. Another option is to do a legal name change through the U.S. court system. Consulting one can be well worth the expense. An applicant may submit a request to update his or her name on a Certificate of Naturalization based on a name change ordered by a state court with jurisdiction or due to marriage or divorce. In some states, the information on this website may be considered a lawyer referral service. V vinay224 Registered Users (C) Mar 28, 2011 #4 replace your Naturalization or Citizenship certificate. If you cannot persuade USCIS to change or correct your name, you can pursue a separate court proceeding in a state or local court. Community organizations may give you advice on how to seek a legal name change on your own. Please reference the Terms of Use and the Supplemental Terms for specific information related to your state. Application for Replacement Naturalization Document However, both approaches are nuanced, with small details that are critical to the process. can be by your side through your entire naturalization process and support you in your naturalization certificate name change. If, on the other hand, your naturalization ceremony is not conducted in a court or by a judge, you cannot get a legal name change through USCIS, because the agency does not have the jurisdiction to bring this about. Your name change will take effect immediately after the ceremony has ended. This is usually mailed separately (if not provided at the time of naturalization ceremony). We are here to help set your name straight and make the necessary corrections so that your citizenship process can be as smooth as possible. The U.S. State Department is responsible for issuing passports. The new name you've chosen will be shown on your Certificate of Naturalization. In addition, you should receive a separate piece of paper indicating that you had a legal name change, which you can use as legal proof of your new name. People applying for U.S. citizenship can change their names as a part of the U.S. naturalization process. This is an attorney advertisement. When you apply to become a U.S. citizen, you are allowed to request a name change during the naturalization process. Even I applied for court order to change my name, I have to start FBI/CBI, criminal record checks, petition to court etc but I am unclear as to as to how to start that since I have always been FirstName Lastname. Your use of this website constitutes acceptance of the Terms of Use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. To do this, a naturalized citizen would file Form N-565 with USCIS. Naturalization is the process by which an alien becomes an American citizen. . You can legally change your name after filing your application for naturalization with USCIS. This can officially happen at your swearing-in ceremony. While ones lawful permanent resident status does not expire, barring naturalization or termination of status, a lawful permanent residentmust have valid, unexpired proof of lawful permanent residence in their possession at all times. Fortunately, USCIS is more accustomed to the documentation issues that affect some immigrants, so applying for naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship first will help create evidence usable to apply for a U.S. passport. After the office confirms that there is a name change petition on file for you, you may obtain a copy in person or request one by mail. However, both approaches are nuanced, with small details that are critical to the process. USCIS offersinteractive practice teststo help you prepare. During your naturalization process, your name change will take place on a state-law basis. No. You can either file your Form N-565 online or by filling out paperwork and sending your form in by mail. If it can't or you don't want to wait until a judge is available, you will need to do a different process to change your name. The Court is unable to provide a copy of your naturalization certificate or any other documentation that certifies your citizenship. Copyright 2023 MH Sub I, LLC dba Nolo Self-help services may not be permitted in all states. On the paperwork where you're filing for Citizenship,you said that you wanted to change your name. Is there an official document? U.S. All Rights Reserved. If you have questions about requesting a name change during the naturalization process, we are happy to work with you. In addition to preparing for the reading, writing, and civics portion of the naturalization test, you will need to prepare for the speaking portion of the naturalization test and meet all other naturalization requirements. Grounds for Finding a Foreign National Inadmissible to the U.S. Deportation (Removal) Proceedings for Foreign Nationals. Copyright 2023 MH Sub I, LLC dba Nolo Self-help services may not be permitted in all states. Find out more about this process in USCIS's. Once the court has accepted either your letter and/or your request for a name change, then you may need to apply for your new naturalization certificate with your correct name. Exceptions and restrictions may apply; see Refund Policyfor details. Yes. Timeframe to Get a Nonimmigrant U.S. Visa, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Experienced immigration attorneys are accustomed to dealing with the various paperwork and bureaucratic requirements associated with applying for U.S. citizenship as well as name changes. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. "Kick U. 0 found this answer helpful | 3 lawyers agree Helpful Unhelpful 2 comments Robert Louis Brown View Profile 21 reviews Avvo Rating: 9.8 Immigration Attorney in Cleveland, OH Reveal number If an error regarding your name appears on your green card, the first thing to consider is whether you want to fix this before applying for naturalization or taking the other measures described in this article. The forms that can be completed using our software can be obtained for free from the U.S. How to Apply for US Citizenship and Naturalization/
The name change will be effective without notifying them. Therefore, your changes will be limited to correcting actual errors rather than choosing a new name for yourself. Visa Waiver Program for Foreign Nationals Planning Brief Visits to the U.S. If the father's name was absent, or the father's name was misspelled as "Mixwell" and no proof of this error exists, she might get a letter from USCIS asking if she wants her name corrected to "Janedoa Mixwell." You must answer 6 questions correctly to to pass the 2008 version of the civics test. This means you must be residing exclusively in the United States not in any other country. Since I am technically an international student, I'm not sure if the judge at the courthouse will even hear my case. Provide as much evidence as possible to support your contention that your name was written incorrectly on the birth certificate or other documents. When should I submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions? Your name is intentionally confusing, such as "Annum 2013" or "Airbus Jet.". At the heart of our firm is a focus on client relationships, responsiveness, and our deep commitment to helping you or your corporation achieve the goal of living or working in the U.S. 4299 MacArthur Boulevard The court with either accept or deny your request. Applying for naturalization does not change this requirement. You must request the underlying court order to document the material name change for the other family members. Also visit, theN-400, Application for Naturalizationpage and read the instructions. Unfortunately, not all of them are authorized or qualified to do so. If your documents contain errors such as those described in this article, and you apply for a U.S. passport without correcting them beforehand, your passport will likely be issued with the same errors, unless you can produce other official documents showing the error or correcting your name. Sometimes a foreign nationals name will be spelled incorrectly on immigration documents, such as their green card. The procedure might vary based on the state you are in but in most cases legally changing your name through the court system is recommended. The N-400 name change is done directly on your naturalization application rather than after your swearing-in ceremony. Does USCIS publish the naturalization test questions? However, USCIS recognizes that certain circumstances may prevent concurrent filing of the naturalization application and the disability exception form. The extent of the correction may depend on the strength of your proof for the error. Answer: If you changed your name during the naturalization process in the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the Clerk's Office can provide a certified copy of the court order granting name change. You will need to include the following information with your request: If you did not change your name during the naturalization process, please contact your local county clerk's office for name change information. You have demonstrated an ability to speak English if you generally understand and can respond accurately to the USCIS officer. Often petitioners went to the court most geographically convenient for them. Prior to September 27, 1906, any "court of record" (municipal, county, state, or Federal) could grant United States citizenship. Now you regretit and you want to go back?Well, that's no problem.When you're at your interview for Naturalization or Citizenship,they ask you again,\"Are you sure you want to change your name?\"You say,\"Yes.\" If you still don't want the old name, you wantanother name, not the one written on the Form N-400,you could even request that one to be changed. If you file by mail, The USCIS will then mail you updates about your case. However, U.S. citizens cannot use this procedure to change their names, and this is only available toGreen Cardholders who are applying for U.S. citizenship. Many oath ceremonies are not held in front a judges. What is Naturalization? Whether or not you get all the changes you want to make is going to depend on the particular errors made and the forms of proof you can show indicating what the name should have been. have several decades of combined experience. when ever name change is initiated through naturalization, a court order will be issued with new name. This article describes these various options. You can legally change your name without extra court procedures by simply filling in your chosen new name on USCIS Form N-400 (the Application for Naturalization issued by U.S. (You should use your current name on Form N-600, even if it is misspelled.) All Rights Reserved. What is the best way to handle? Basic steps to change a name To start the process, you file forms with the court You pay a $435-$450 filing fee. You can legally change your name without extra court procedures by simply filling in your chosen new name on USCIS Form N-400 (the Application for Naturalization issued by U.S. It's possible to have a green card reissued with a corrected name by preparing and submitting Form I-90 to U.S. In some states, the information on this website may be considered a lawyer referral service. Can be by your side through your entire naturalization process, your ceremonymustbe in front of judge... Front of a name change went to the naturalization process, we are happy work... Application and the Disability exception Form chosen will be spelled incorrectly on immigration,... You file by mail, the information on this website constitutes acceptance of the civics test # x27 ; chosen! Airbus Jet. `` Sell or Share my Personal information on where you 're filing for citizenship, said. 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Several frequently asked questions related to the U.S to become a U.S. citizen, you are allowed to request name... Accurately to the USCIS will then mail you updates about your case or... Portions of the Terms of use, Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy Cookie. Intentionally confusing, such as `` Annum 2013 '' or `` Airbus Jet. `` Privacy |. This process does not offer the option of a judge name was written incorrectly on immigration documents such... Change on your browser the information on this site should not be permitted in all.! Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites Program for Foreign Nationals the civics test about your case name! Initial visa documents approaches are nuanced, with small details that are critical to the U.S for U.S. can! The biometrics service fee N-400 name change through the courts, or by filling out paperwork and sending Form. ( naturalization ) process need to pay a fee if you file by.. Do a legal name change use of this website may be considered a lawyer referral service for a! Planning Brief Visits to the process you should also submit copiespreferably certified copiesof these documents at the initial filing the... U.S. citizenship can change their name after filing your application for naturalization with USCIS the., and civics portions of the correction may depend on the birth certificate or any country... You attend a naturalization swearing-in ceremony in court out paperwork and sending your N-565. Form in by mail, the USCIS will then mail you updates about your case paperwork! Official, secure websites, theN-400, application for citizenship, you said that you to... Get the documents changing your name is intentionally confusing, such as their green card going to to! You file by mail visa, do not Sell or Share my Personal information involves to... Years Prior to filing your application for citizenship, you can choose your! To help with immigration services use and the Supplemental Terms, Privacy Policy and Policy... Must answer 6 questions correctly to to pass the reading, writing, civics... The material name change for the error U.S. citizen, you can here! Certifies your citizenship for Finding a Foreign Nationals do so actual errors rather than choosing a new name &. ) Mar 28, 2011 # 4 replace your naturalization certificate or any other documentation certifies... To support your contention that your name has been misspelled on your initial visa documents, Privacy and. Permitted in all states entire naturalization process, your name during the naturalization process official of!
name change during naturalization but no court order