When is the best time to change my last name after getting married if I am planning to apply for a green card?

Question

I'm already living in the US and will be getting married to the US citizen on Nov 1. I would like to send in my paperwork for a green card as soon as possible after the marriage, since we are hoping to travel to my country for Christmas. I know that changing your name through Social Security Office and DMV takes time and can delay me for a few weeks, but is it better to do that before sending the documentation for a green card, even though my passport will have to stay in maiden name until I can go to Ukraine again?

Answer 1

From personal experience, file your AOS (greencard) paperwork as soon as you are married, using your married name.

You can change your SSN or DL at any time by simply showing your marriage certificate. The status of those documents has no bearing on your AOS, and will not delay your AOS at all.

You can still travel on your Ukrainian passport - but make sure you have two documents with you to re-enter the USA. First, your "advance leave" to leave and re-enter the USA, and your marriage certificate.

And you do not have to change your passport in Ukraine. You can do it at the Ukrainian Embassy, or one of the consulates, inside the USA. They will require the actual green card before they will change your name in your passport.

Answer 2

It depends on your status here. Nonimmigrant or resident immigrant status? Go to http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis for information.