Q: Can I change my name in the US while residing abroad?
I am a US citizen (born in PA and have lived in OH, NY, MD, and MI) but have been living in Germany for the past 3 years. At the beginning of this year, I got married and I wanted to change my last name to take my husband’s last name, but I also want to change my middle name to my maiden name. In Germany, I could only change the last name, so I declined to do that and was reassured by the German official that I would be able to change my name through the US courts. Now I am running into a brick wall trying to figure out how this is possible. I do not have any legal US documents with an address, just a birth certificate from Pittsburgh and my US Passport and social security card with no address.
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A:
Changing your name in the US while residing abroad can be a bit complex, but it is possible. To change your name, you generally need to file a petition with the court in the state where you last resided or where you have some form of residency connection. Since you have a birth certificate from Pittsburgh, you may consider starting the process in Pennsylvania.
Begin by contacting the Pennsylvania court system to understand the specific requirements for filing a name change petition. You will likely need to provide your birth certificate, marriage certificate, passport, and possibly proof of your last US address. Be prepared to complete and submit any required forms and possibly attend a court hearing, although some courts might allow remote participation.
After the court approves your name change, you will need to update your US passport, Social Security card, and other official documents. The US embassy or consulate in Germany can assist with updating your passport. Contact them for guidance on the necessary steps and required documentation.
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