What should I do if my passport has my maiden name and I recently got married?

If you got married and your passport still shows your maiden name, the key is to keep all documents consistent throughout the H-1B process. A name discrepancy does not block the process, but it must be explained and documented to avoid delays.

The first step is usually to update your passport with your country’s issuing authority so that the document reflects your current legal name. Once updated, your passport data will align with the other records used in the visa application.

For the H-1B, personal information must match what appears on the forms and documents submitted to the Department of State and USCIS. While your passport still shows the old name, gather proof of the legal name change.

• Update your passport with your country’s issuing authority.
• Keep your marriage certificate as proof of the name change.
• Use the same name consistently across all documents in the process.

Since each case has its own details, confirm the current requirements with USCIS or a qualified specialist before submitting or renewing the petition.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.