There are many reasons to change your name. Sometimes, it’s due to marriage or divorce. Other times, it’s simply because you want a name that sounds more American. You may have two last names, which can be confusing in the US. Often, one of the last names is used as a middle name, creating problems. Or maybe you just want a fresh start with a new identity.
But what if you’re already in the process of becoming a US citizen? Can you change your name during the naturalization process?
Yes, you can! In this article, we’ll explain how to do it, when to ask for it, and what to keep in mind so you don’t miss your chance.
How to do a name change during the naturalization process
There are two main opportunities to change your name during the citizenship process.
1. When filling out your naturalization application (Form N-400).
2. After you’ve become a US citizen.
Each option has its pros and cons. Let’s review them to help you decide what works best for you.
Changing your name when filling out your naturalization application
The easiest way to change your legal name during naturalization is by filling out your N-400 application.
The section 4 of the form has a space where you can request a name change. Write the new name you want, and you’ve made the request.
However, writing it down doesn’t automatically change your name. Your application will still go through the regular process. If everything moves forward, you’ll eventually be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony in front of a judge. The key point is that only a judge can legally approve the name change as part of your naturalization.
But don’t worry if you forgot to request the name change on your form; it’s not the end of the world. You can mention it during your USCIS interview. In fact, it’s common for the officer to ask if you want to change your name. If they don’t ask, you can bring it up yourself.
You can practice interview questions with our blog: Citizenship Mock Interview 2025: Real N-400 Questions
If the judge approves your request, you’ll be called by your new name at your ceremony. Once you take the oath, your citizenship certificate will have your new name. On that day, you won’t just be celebrating becoming a US citizen but also starting a new chapter with a new name.
Remember, once the name change is official, you must update all your records, including your Social Security card, driver’s license, bank accounts, and passport.
Pros and cons of changing your name when filling out form N-400
As we said before, this is the easiest way to change your legal name during naturalization. Why? Because you’re taking care of two things at once: becoming a US citizen and updating your name. There’s no need to pay extra fees or deal with more paperwork. It’s all part of the same process. The best part is that you end up with the name you want to use.
However, like everything in life, it does have some downsides. The biggest one? Your new name only becomes official if a judge approves it. For that to happen, your naturalization ceremony must be held in front of a judge. If the judge is unavailable that day, USCIS may delay your ceremony. In other words, it could take longer to become a citizen officially.
Also, changing your name through Form N-400 gives you less control over the process. If there’s a mistake on the form or during the review process, fixing it could take time and extra effort.
Changing your name after naturalization
Now, if you didn’t request a name change when filling out your naturalization form or if UCSIS didn’t approve it, don’t worry. You can still change your name after getting citizenship. Like any other U.S. citizen, you must undergo the regular civil process.
This involves filing a request in the state court where you live. Each state has its own rules, but generally, you’ll need to:
– Fill out your state’s name change forms
– Pay a fee ranging from $100 to over $400.
– Attend a hearing with a judge.
If everything goes smoothly, the judge will sign a legal order with your new name. Then, you can update all your documents, including your passport, Social Security card, driver’s license, and bank accounts.
One more thing: Since your naturalization certificate still has your old name, you’ll need to request a new one. To do so, you must file Form N-565 (yes, another form).
Pros and cons of changing your name after atnuralization
The most significant advantage is flexibility. You can change your name whenever you want without worrying about USCIS deadlines. You also have more control because you can choose when and how.
Another advantage is that you won’t risk delaying your citizenship ceremony. It won’t interfere with your travel plans either since your passport and documents will still have your original name until you decide to change them.
However, changing your name after naturalization is more expensive. You have to pay a court fee, which can be pretty high depending on your state. Plus, this isn’t part of the USCIS process, so it’s a separate procedure with its paperwork and waiting time.
After all the work of becoming a citizen and everything that follows the ceremony, you’ll have to dive back into the paperwork to change your name. Yep—more bureaucracy.
Summing up
Changing your name during the naturalization process is possible. You just need to decide how to do it. Will you take care of it early on with your N-400, or wait and handle it later through the court?
Both options have their pros and cons.
If you want a quick and easy process without extra fees, include the name change with your N-400. However, if you want more control or aren’t completely sure yet, you can always wait and do it later through the civil process.
The important thing is knowing that you have options. With some planning, you can get a new name that fits you better and start your new life as a citizen with a fresh identity.