Korean Job Discussion Forums

Buff · Joined: 07 Apr 2004

Hi all, I'm getting married days before moving back to Korea and would like to take hubbie's name. I know the normal procedure for changing one's name in the US, but I'm wondering if anyone has done it from Korea. Since I'm traveling on a passport that will have my maiden name, then my visa and ARC would have my maiden name too. I can't really figure out where to start. Has anyone had any experience with this?

plattwaz · Joined: 08 Apr 2005 Location: <Write something dumb here>

http://seoul.usembassy.gov/amend_passport.html

According to the US Embassy in Korea, ammendments are no longer available in Korea - you have to reapply for a new passport with your new name.

I'd suggest either having all of your paper work (whatever specific documentation the embassy requires) ready to bring with you on the plane and do it when you get here.

Changing your ARC won't be a problem after you change your passport.

Or, I would suggest using your maiden name for the year in travel and in official documents, and using your married name socially.

heydelores · Joined: 24 Apr 2006

My friend needed a copy of her marriage license when she applied for her ARC because the name on her diploma and transcripts didn't match her passport. I know that doesn't answer your question, but it's somewhat related.

kat2 · Joined: 25 Oct 2005 Location: Busan, South Korea

I got married a month before comin to korea for the first time. I didn't change my name and still haven't 3 years later. The process in the states takes from 3-6 months to get all your documents changed. There was no way I was going to start that overseas, when I would have to change my passport and worry about visa changes and everything. I'll probably have it done whenever we settle back in the states, but until that time we just have different names. Of course its kind of easy in korea, because all married couples have different last names.

Buff · Joined: 07 Apr 2004

Keeping my name for a year or so is certainly an option. It would make things easier on the administrative end of things.

Good suggestions folks. Has anyone actually done the name change in Korea though? Just want to know how it went from your perspective.