Q: Can a legal temporary resident apply to change their name and last name in California?

A: Yes, as temporary resident, so long as you meet the residency requirements in California and the county that you are residing in, you are able to file for a legal name change.

There is absolutely no relevance of your immigration status in the United States in order to change your name legally. It does not matter if you are a permanent resident, temporary resident, or undocumented. So long as you meet the residency requirements for the county and the state, you are able to file a legal name change for yourself.

A: As a legal temporary resident in California, you have the right to apply for a name change. The state does not limit this process to permanent residents or citizens. You can file a petition with the court, publish a notice in a local newspaper, and attend a court hearing, just as a permanent resident would.

The California Constitution does not specifically address name changes. Instead, state laws and court procedures govern the process. Your journey will involve completing the necessary paperwork, paying the required fees, and following the steps outlined by the court.

It might be helpful to consult with a legal aid organization or attorney to guide you through the process. They can assist you with the specific requirements and ensure that everything is filed correctly. This way, you can navigate the name change process smoothly as a temporary resident.