Can I transfer visa stamps after a passport name change?

by Ashley
(Greensboro, NC)

Question I am getting married in October 2011 and I am considering changing my last name. However, I recently purchased a passport in September of 2010. I have traveled to a couple of countries since then and would really like to keep those visas/stamps and include them in the new passport if I decide to change my last name. Will I be able to transfer my current visa stamps to the new passport with the new last name? I would also like to keep the same photo I have now and not resubmit a new photo if I change my name. Would I be able to keep the same photo?

Answer: Since it will be more than one year since the issuance of your passport when you apply for a name change, you will be required to submit Form DS-82: Application for a Passport Renewal by Mail.

Your current passport will be invalidated and returned to you. The State Department does not transfer visa stamps. You need to verify the requirements for each country for which you have a visa since regulations vary. Some countries allow you to present a valid visa in an invalidated passport as long as you also have a valid passport. This means you would need to travel with both passports.

Other countries require you apply to transfer the visa. Still others require you apply for a new visa.

Concerning the picture, you will be required to submit a new passport photo. Passport photos can not be older than 6 months old at the time of submission.