Can I Change My Name During Naturalization?

Yes, you can legally change your name during the naturalization process. According to USCIS Form N-400 instructions, you can request a name change as part of your application, and USCIS will file a petition with a court on your behalf. This requires a judicial oath ceremony rather than an administrative one, since only a court can authorize a legal name change.

Two Ways to Change Your Name

According to USCIS, there are two scenarios for name changes during the citizenship process:

1. Name Changed While N-400 is Pending

If your name has changed after you filed Form N-400 (for example, due to marriage or divorce), you must promptly provide USCIS with the documents that legally changed your name, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Make sure to mention your name change and bring the documents to your interview.

2. Request a Name Change at Naturalization

You can also request to legally change your name as part of the naturalization process itself. The Form N-400 instructions include information on what is required when you wish to change your name at the time of naturalization.

How the Name Change Process Works

If you request a name change during naturalization, here's what happens:

• At your interview, the USCIS officer will record your name change request
• You will sign a name change petition
• USCIS files this petition with a court before your oath ceremony
• The court signs and seals the petition
• You receive the petition as evidence of your name change at the naturalization ceremony

Judicial vs. Administrative Oath Ceremonies

There's an important distinction to understand: if you request a name change through USCIS, you will be required to take the Oath of Allegiance at a judicial ceremony rather than an administrative one. This is because USCIS is not authorized to make name changes—only a court can do that.

Possible Delays

Keep in mind that requesting a name change may add some time to the process. USCIS has limited control over the judicial ceremony calendar, as it depends on court availability. However, most courts are accommodating of the need for naturalization ceremonies.

Prepare for Your Interview

Whether or not you're changing your name, the most important step is to prepare thoroughly for your citizenship interview and test. Practice answering questions about your N-400 application and study for the civics and English tests. Citizenry offers unlimited mock interviews to help you feel confident and ready.