Do I need to get a new passport if my name has changed due to marriage?

by Thea
(Provo, Utah, USA)

Question: I have my old passport that is still valid for several more years, but I got married recently and am going to travel to the British Virgin Islands with my family and my husband. I just want to know if my old passport with my maiden name is still valid and will work to get me to the BVI and back into the US.

Answer: American citizens are required to travel with a passport that has their current legal name. If your name changed due to marriage then you need to apply for a passport name change before you travel.

If your passport was issued less than a year ago, there is no fee. If it was issued more than a year ago, then you need to apply for a passport renewal and pay the appropriate fee.

For a list of requirements, click the link below.

Apply for Passport Renewal

Click here to post comments.

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Passport Name Change FAQ.

Latest Passport & Travel Updates

Passport Requirements
List and description of documents required for citizens of the United States to obtain passports.

Passport Book vs. Passport Card
Learn the similarities and differences between the traditional passport book and the newer passport card.

Rush Passport Expediting
Requirements, fees and processing times for getting rush passport expediting.

Multiple Entry Visa Information
What is a multiple entry visa and how do you apply for one. Get the general requirements for obtainings visas with multiple entries.

A Day in the Life of a Tourist in San Juan
You wake up at your resort and look at the stunning view of Condado Beach. Even though it's early, children are already playing in the sand. The waves ...

Playa del Carmen, Mexico - The Perfect Tropical Paradise for Your Vacation
Discover why Playa del Carmen is such a popular vacation spot for any season of the year. Find out what to do and see as well as where to stay in this lush tropical paradise of MexicoÂ´s Mayan Riviera.

Ein Bokek at the Dead Sea Israel
Ein Bokek - A fabulous oasis in the desert and a magnet for health seekers and tourists alike. Ein Bokek is located on the southwestern shore of the ...