Name Change in Green Card - How soon is it necessary?

[pixie_girl]

Hi,

I recently changed my name from maiden to married in my Indian passport. But my green card has my maiden name. I was wondering if its necessary for me to change it in my Green Card now or is it enough if I change it when its up for renewal? I plan to travel out of the country in about a year and it will not be up for renewal then.

Thanks

 

[Jackolantern]

You should change it before you have to use it again to work, travel, or apply for a driver's license. If you travel outside the US before changing it, bring your marriage certificate so the officer will see the reason for the discrepancy between the green card and passport.