Letter To Correct Name On Visa Or I-20

A “Letter to Correct Name on Visa or I-20” is just what it sounds like. It’s a formal request. It asks an authority to fix your name. This letter is needed when there’s a typo. It’s also needed when there’s an error on your visa or I-20 form. This often happens with international travel or study.

Writing official letters can be daunting. We get it. That’s why we’re here to help.

In this article, we share ready-to-use templates. You can use them as examples or samples. They will help you write your own “Letter to Correct Name on Visa or I-20”. You can customize them to fit your situation. Let’s make fixing that name easy!

Contents show

Letter To Correct Name On Visa Or I-20

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]

[Date]

[Name of Visa Issuing Authority or School Official]
[Address of Visa Issuing Authority or School]

Subject: Request to Correct Name Discrepancy on Visa/I-20

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to request a correction to my name as it appears on my visa/I-20. My name is officially [Your Correct Full Name]. However, it is incorrectly listed as [Incorrect Name on Visa/I-20] on my visa/I-20.

This discrepancy could cause issues with my travel and/or enrollment. Therefore, I kindly request that you issue a corrected visa/I-20 with my proper name.

I have attached copies of my passport [and other relevant documents such as birth certificate, if applicable] to verify my correct name.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,

[Your Signature]

How to Write a Letter To Correct Name On Visa Or I-20

Subject Line: The Harbinger of Rectification

The subject line is your clarion call to action. It needs to be concise yet informative. Think of it as a succinct declaration of intent. Examples include:

Request for Name Correction on Visa
I-20 Name Discrepancy – [Your Name]
Urgent: Name Amendment Required on I-20/Visa

Salutation: Addressing the Gatekeepers

Begin with a formal salutation. Deference is key here. If you know the specific officer or department, use their name and title. Otherwise, opt for a more generic, yet respectful, greeting.

Dear Immigration Officer,
Dear [Name of Official],
To Whom It May Concern:

Introduction: The Genesis of the Issue

Clearly articulate the purpose of your letter. State the existing name on the document and the correct appellation. Provide context; explain how the error transpired without assigning blame. A little diplomacy goes a long way.

Example:

“I am writing to request a correction to the name listed on my I-20/Visa, which currently reads ‘[Incorrect Name]’. The correct spelling of my name is ‘[Correct Name]’. This discrepancy arose due to [brief explanation, e.g., a transcription error during the application process].”

Body Paragraph 1: Substantiating Your Claim

This is where you furnish irrefutable evidence. Include your full name, date of birth, passport number, I-20 or Visa number (as applicable), and any other pertinent identifying information. Attach copies of relevant documents, such as your passport and birth certificate, as visual corroboration.

Full Name: [Your Full Name]
Date of Birth: [YYYY-MM-DD]
Passport Number: [Your Passport Number]
I-20/Visa Number: [Your I-20/Visa Number]
Attach copies of your passport and birth certificate.

Body Paragraph 2: An Appeal to Expediency

Explain the urgency of the situation and any potential ramifications of the error. For instance, mention potential issues with travel or enrollment. Frame it as a genuine concern that you hope they can ameliorate expeditiously.

Example:

“This correction is crucial as the incorrect name may impede my ability to travel and commence my studies/continue my stay in the United States. I kindly request your prompt attention to this matter to obviate any potential complications.”

Closing: A Finale of Gratitude

Express your gratitude for their time and anticipated assistance. Reiterate your availability to provide any further documentation or information they may require. End on a cordial and professional note.

Thank you for your time and consideration.
I am available to provide any further documentation or information needed to expedite this process.

Sign-off and Signature: The Seal of Authenticity

Employ a formal closing, followed by your handwritten signature and typed name beneath. This provides a personal touch and authenticates the document.

Sincerely,
[Your Handwritten Signature]
[Your Typed Full Name]

Frequently Asked Questions: Correcting Name Errors on Visa or I-20

This FAQ addresses common questions regarding correcting name discrepancies on your visa or I-20 form. Ensuring your name is accurate on these documents is crucial for a smooth immigration process.

What should I do if my name is misspelled on my visa?

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate where you obtained the visa as soon as possible. They will provide instructions on how to correct the error, which may involve submitting a new application or providing supporting documentation.

How do I correct a name error on my I-20 form?

Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) at your university or institution immediately. They are responsible for updating your SEVIS record and issuing a corrected I-20 form.

What documents do I need to provide to correct my name?

Typically, you will need to provide a copy of your passport, birth certificate, or other official documents that clearly show your correct name. The specific requirements may vary depending on the issuing institution or embassy.

Is there a fee to correct my name on my visa or I-20?

The U.S. embassy or consulate may require you to pay a new visa application fee if a new visa needs to be issued. Your school may not charge a fee for a corrected I-20, but you should confirm with your DSO.