Married Name?

[MrMath 1]

I'm sorry, I'm sure this information is out there, but I've searched and read the FAQs but haven't found...

We are getting married in the Philippines and will apply for her IR-1 right away. She either wishes to take my name, or hyphenate. The Philippines marriage certificate does not seem to have a name change option. What last name should we list for her on the I-130?

Thank you again!

Eric.

[Gosha.Bee 1]

Use whatever name she'll have in about 6 months when your case gets to NVC. Also make sure it's the same name she'll have on her passport.

I made the mistake of putting my maiden name on the i130 and g325, since that was still officially my name. I changed it and had all my documents changed (incl passport) about a month or two after we got married. Now it's kind of complicated to notify USCIS about that change.

So think ahead and use whatever name she'll have in her passport in about 6 motnhs.

[yhang 20]

I used my husband's last name.. As far as I know, once you get married here in the Philippines, your last name should be your husband's last name. Besides, to save yourself from stress in the future. Because if you write her maiden name on the I-130, expect to have all her documents under her maiden name. When she decides to go back here for a visit, she always have to have all her paperwork/documents with her to prove that she's married to you. That kinda stressful. So, why not use her married name to save from all the stress? She also needs to change her passport.

and... hi Gosha.Bee!

[MrMath 1]

Thank you both! I understand

I'm just getting into this I-130 form. For such a friendly, easy looking form, it seems to have a bite.

I'm looking forward to making VJ friends along the way

Eric.