Can I live with my husband on post in Tokyo with my passport being in maiden name?
Question: My Fiancé is in the military and is currently station in Tokyo, Japan. When we return to the U.S. in July, we will get marry. After, we will move to Tokyo together for our permanent residence. Can I live with my husband on post in Tokyo with my passport being in maiden name? Will I be able to change my name on my passport in Tokyo? How long will this process takes?
Answer: You will have to purchase your airline ticket to Tokyo, Japan in your maiden name. Since your passport still has your maiden name. Once your name is the same on your airline ticket and your passport, you will be able to travel to Tokyo.
After you arrive in Japan, you should get in contact or visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. You will be able to change the name in your passport with the services provided by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Passport processing times abroad are usually different than processing times in the U.S. In the U.S. processing time is about 4-6 weeks. Abroad processing time is usually 2-3 weeks. This time frame may vary with each case due to lack of documentation or high volume of passport applicants.
Furthermore, there is an option available to you being that you are marrying someone in the military. You may request a no fee passport. With a no fee passport, you can not use it for leisure traveling purposes. But, if you want to travel leisurely, you must use your tourist passport. You should get in contact with someone in the Installation Travel Office on base. They will help you obtain a no fee passport or resolve any inquiries you may have about a no fee passport. Use the following link to get more information on changing the name on your passport abroad.
