How to Obtain a New Passport After You've Changed Your Name

Traveling to other countries---to explore slopes to ski, mountains to hike, rivers to raft or waters to fish---requires a passport. Once your name changes, for any reason, you must update your passport to match the rest of your identification or you won't be able to travel to other countries for your outdoor activities. Keep your passport up-to-date with any name changes by filling out the proper form and submitting it with the required documents and fees.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

U.S. Passport

Things You’ll Need:

Current U.S. passport Form DS-5504, DS-82 or DS-11 Two recent color photos Proof of name change Applicable fees
Current U.S. passport
Form DS-5504, DS-82 or DS-11
Two recent color photos
Proof of name change
Applicable fees

Step 1

Determine which form you need to fill out to obtain a new passport after you've changed your name. If your current passport was issued less than a year ago and you have an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate or court papers to document your name change, fill out Form DS-5504. Form DS-82 is required if your current passport was issued more than one year ago. Fill out Form DS-11 if you have no legal proof of your name change.

Step 2

Gather your current passport, the proper DS form, two recent color photographs, applicable fees and proof of your name change. If you do not have proof of your name change, you'll need at least three public records showing your assumed name and birthday. If your current passport was issued within the last year you will not have to pay any additional fees unless you are requesting expedited service.

Step 3

Send all of your documents and funds to the address shown on the form if your situation calls for Form DS-5504 or DS-82. If you have to fill out Form DS-11 you'll have to go to an acceptance facility in person. Additional documentation may be required, including having a witness appear with you to state that he or she knows you and can vouch for you and your name.

Canadian Passport

Step 1

Canadian citizens must have all identification in the same name, including a passport. To change your name, you must apply for a new passport. Fill out the application form in its entirety.

Step 2

Gather proof of your Canadian citizenship and name change, whether it's by marriage, common-law partnership or a legal name change. This may include your marriage certificate, legal name change, adoption order or newly issued birth certificate containing your new legal name.

Step 3

Submit two color photographs, having one signed by the guarantor. Include the applicable fee and any valid Canadian travel document.

Tips & Warnings

When mailing your documents, use a traceable delivering method along with a secure type of packaging, such as a Tyvek envelope as recommended by the U.S. Department of State. Verify that all of your information is correct and that you have all of the required documents to prevent any delays or hassles.

When mailing your documents, use a traceable delivering method along with a secure type of packaging, such as a Tyvek envelope as recommended by the U.S. Department of State.

Verify that all of your information is correct and that you have all of the required documents to prevent any delays or hassles.

The U.S. Department of State can request additional identification or documentation at any time. Provide as much proof of your identification as possible to prevent delays.

Article Written By Janece Bass

Janece Bass is a freelance writer specializing in weddings, family, health, parenting, relationships, dating, decorating, travel, music and sports. She has been writing for more than 15 years and has numerous published pieces on various websites and blogs. Bass has also ghostwritten various fiction-based novels.

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