How to change your name on your passport

Changing your name on a passport can feel like a complicated process, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you've recently married, divorced, or legally changed your name, updating your passport is crucial for seamless travel.

At iVisa, we make the process stress-free with an [easy-to-follow application] and expert support. Let us guide you through the process and help prevent common mistakes that could delay your application.

Who needs to apply for a passport name change?

Not sure if you need to update your passport after a name change? Here’s the deal: your passport should always match your current legal name for hassle-free international travel. If you’ve experienced any of the following legal name changes, it’s time to update your passport:

✅ Marriage: If you changed your last name (or added a hyphenated surname) after marriage.

✅ Divorce: If you reverted to your maiden name or another previous legal name.

✅ Court-ordered name change: If you legally changed your first, middle, or last name for personal or professional reasons.

✅ Gender transition: If your name was updated to align with your gender identity.

✅ Religious or cultural reasons: If you formally changed your name through a legal petition.

When should you change the name on your passport?

Timing is everything when updating your passport. Here are the best moments to take action:

✅ Immediately after a legal name change: Avoid last-minute stress before traveling.

✅ Before booking flights: Airlines require that your ticket name matches your passport exactly.

✅ Before international travel: An incorrect passport name can lead to border control issues.

✅ During passport renewal: If your passport is close to expiring, combine the renewal and name change.

✅ Before major life events: Are you planning a destination wedding or an overseas job? Update your documents early.

"I changed my documents due to a gender change. First was a court order name change per regulations. The passport change was key," explains Amanda G., IT Consultant, Atlanta

Passport name change: How to apply with us

Updating your name on a U.S. passport can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We offer a faster, more convenient way to complete the process than the complicated government site.

What you need to apply

• Application form: If your passport was issued more than a year ago, you need to use the DS-82 form (passport renewal), but if it was issued less than a year ago, you need the DS-5504 form (correction request).
• Your current passport (must be undamaged).
• A recent passport photo (Read [our passport photo guide] to ensure compliance).
• Certified proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree.

"I am renewing my passport and correcting the spelling of my name. The Passport Office asked for copies of my documents and a note explaining the change," explained Jonathan S., University Administrator, Boston.

• Payment method to pay the required application fee.

"A lot of people wonder if you need to submit your birth certificate. But if you have a passport, you don't need a birth certificate to establish citizenship," advises Michael T., Immigration lawyer, Chicago

Our application process

With FastPassport by iVisa, we take care of the paperwork, so you don’t have to. Here’s what you can expect when applying with us:

1️. Complete our online application: Answer a few simple questions to determine your eligibility and provide details.

2️. Receive your personalized passport application kit from us. It will contain the following:

• A completed DS-82 or DS-5504 form, pre-filled for accuracy.
• A printed and stapled passport-sized photo (for mail renewal).
• A bank check covering U.S. government fees.
• A pre-addressed USPS envelope for easy submission.

3️. Review and sign your documents: Follow our step-by-step instructions to check, sign, and prepare your packet.

4️. Mail your application: Drop off your completed kit at the nearest USPS location. We ensure your package is addressed appropriately to avoid processing delays.

5️. Track your renewal: Receive status updates via email so you know when to expect your new passport. Apply confidently, knowing that our team ensures your application is error-free and processed quickly.

How long does it take to update a passport?

The U.S. government offers two processing speeds:

• Standard Processing: 6 - 8 weeks.
• Expedited Processing: 3 - 4 weeks (for an additional fee).

Can I get my passport faster?

If you need your passport urgently, we offer expedited processing to get your new passport in as little as 3 weeks.

However, if you require a passport sooner than that, you may need to visit a government passport office in person for emergency travel services.

NB: If your passport application is pending, you cannot travel internationally until your new passport is issued.

"I renewed my passport by mail with a name change. I just included the court order and a photocopy. They do this all the time," revealed happy customer Chris D., Denver.