Must a woman change her surname after marriage to travel abroad with her husband?

Across Nigeria, it is a widely held but incorrect belief that a woman must adopt her husband’s surname after marriage—especially if the couple intends to travel abroad together.

This myth has created unnecessary pressure on newlyweds and even disrupted visa application processes. However, immigration law and global travel procedures are clear: there is no requirement for a woman to change her surname to travel internationally with her spouse. What matters is legal proof of marriage—not matching last names.

What You Really Need: A Valid Marriage Certificate

The primary document embassies and immigration authorities look for is your marriage certificate. Whether issued by a federal marriage registry, a customary court, or documented through a traditional marriage with accompanying affidavits, it serves as legal evidence of your union. This certificate must clearly state the names of both parties, and those names must correspond with what appears on your individual passports. As long as this is provided, visa processing can proceed without requiring a name change.

Travelling with Different Surnames Is Absolutely Allowed

It is perfectly legal and internationally recognized for spouses to retain different surnames after marriage. In fact, in many parts of the world—including the U.S., U.K., Canada, and EU countries—surname changes are not culturally or legally expected. A Nigerian woman with her maiden name in her passport can travel with her husband, provided their marriage certificate proves the relationship. This is especially common among professionals who wish to maintain continuity in their personal or career identities.

Traditional and Customary Marriage Certificates Are Also Accepted

Contrary to popular belief, only court weddings are not the only acceptable form of marital documentation. Many embassies now accept customary court marriage certificates and traditional marriage certificates backed by legal affidavits or declarations. What’s important is that the certificate includes full names, a marriage date, and is verifiable. Whether you married under native law and custom or through a church ceremony recognized by local authorities, your union is valid for immigration and visa purposes.

Why This Misconception Persists in Nigeria

The pressure on Nigerian women to change their surnames comes more from societal expectations than legal requirements. In many families and communities, it’s considered a symbol of respect or belonging to take the husband’s name. Unfortunately, this cultural expectation has been wrongly projected into administrative settings. Even some local officials, bank staff, and travel agents perpetuate the myth that name change is compulsory for visa approval—despite there being no such rule in any immigration handbook.

When You Might Consider a Name Change (But It’s Not Mandatory)

Changing your surname after marriage is a personal decision—not a legal obligation. Some women may still choose to adopt their husband’s name for reasons of uniformity in documentation, joint property registration, or personal preference. In such cases, the name change process involves a sworn affidavit, a newspaper publication, and updating official documents such as your passport, bank accounts, or tax records. But again, this is voluntary and not required for travel or visa processing.

Surname Doesn’t Define Marriage Legality

Your legal identity remains intact with or without a name change. International travel with your spouse requires that you have a valid passport and a genuine marriage certificate. Immigration officers are trained to look for documentation—not cultural assumptions. If your passport bears your maiden name, it is still valid, and you can travel with your spouse, apply for a spousal visa, or even immigrate permanently. What counts is the evidence of your relationship—not identical surnames.