title: Traveling with FNU in b1b2 visa (old passport) and first name and last name split in the new passport slug: 2025-10-24-traveling-with-fnu-in-b1b2-visa-old-passport-and-first-name-and-last-name-split-fr lang: fr date: '2025-10-24' author: New Horizons Legal tags:
- immigration
- analysis source_url: https://reddit.com/r/immigration/comments/1oer5mo/traveling_with_fnu_in_b1b2_visa_old_passport_and/ citations: [] word_count: 0 draft: false canonical_slug: 2025-10-24-traveling-with-fnu-in-b1b2-visa-old-passport-and-first-name-and-last-name-split
Introduction: How to Travel with an FNU Designation on a B1/B2 Visa
Traveling to the United States with a B1/B2 visa can become complex if your visa or passport carries the "FNU" (First Name Unknown) designation. This issue often arises when individuals from countries with different naming conventions apply for U.S. visas. The FNU designation can lead to confusion at U.S. ports of entry and may complicate your travel experience.
In this blog post, we'll explore what the FNU designation means, how it can affect your travel, and what steps you can take to mitigate potential issues, especially if you have split your first and last name in a new passport. We'll also guide you through the relevant legal framework and provide practical tips to ensure a smooth journey.
Legal Background: What Does the FNU Designation Mean?
The FNU designation stands for "First Name Unknown" and is used by the U.S. Department of State when processing visas for individuals whose passports do not clearly specify a first and last name. This situation often occurs for applicants from countries where naming conventions differ significantly from Western standards.
Relevant Legal Provisions
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Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) Section 221: This section grants the Secretary of State the authority to issue visas and regulate the classification of individuals based on identity and nationality, which includes managing naming conventions on visas.
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8 CFR § 214.1: This Code of Federal Regulations section provides general requirements for nonimmigrant classifications, including B1/B2 visas, emphasizing the importance of accurate identification.
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USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 6, Part B: This part of the policy manual addresses the documentation requirements for nonimmigrant visas, including issues related to name discrepancies.
Naming discrepancies can lead to identity verification challenges at U.S. borders and may require additional scrutiny by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. Understanding this legal background can help you prepare for potential questions during entry.
Process and Requirements: How to Manage FNU Designations and Name Changes
If you are traveling with a B1/B2 visa in your old passport that lists FNU, but you have a new passport where your name has been split correctly, there are specific steps you should follow:
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Carry Both Passports: Always travel with both your old and new passports. The old passport contains your valid visa, while the new passport reflects the correct naming convention.
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Inform the Airlines: When booking flights, ensure that your ticket matches the name on your visa to avoid discrepancies during boarding.
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Present Documentation at Entry: At the U.S. port of entry, present both passports to the CBP officer. Explain the naming issue and provide any supporting documentation, such as a letter from your embassy or consulate explaining the correction.
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Consider a Name Change Petition: If you frequently travel to the U.S., you might consider formally updating your visa to reflect the corrected name. This involves submitting a DS-160 form and potentially scheduling an interview at a U.S. consulate.
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Consult USCIS or Consulate for Advice: Before traveling, contact USCIS or the nearest U.S. consulate for specific advice related to your situation, especially if policy updates have occurred.
Common Challenges and Considerations: What Issues Can Arise with FNU?
What Problems Can Arise with FNU Designations?
- Identity Verification Delays: CBP officers might require additional documentation or interviews to verify your identity, leading to delays.
- Boarding Issues: Airline staff may be unfamiliar with FNU designations, causing confusion during check-in.
- Name Discrepancies: If your travel documents do not match, this can lead to misunderstandings or denial of entry.
How Can You Address These Challenges?
- Documentation: Always carry additional identification documents, such as a birth certificate or national ID, to support your identity verification.
- Communication: Clearly communicate your situation to airline staff and CBP officers to preempt potential issues.
- Legal Guidance: Consider seeking legal advice if you anticipate complications, especially if your travel involves frequent U.S. visits.
Practical Tips and Recommendations: How to Ensure a Smooth Journey
What Are the Best Practices for Traveling with an FNU Visa?
- Plan Ahead: Contact the airline before your flight to explain your situation and confirm their policy on FNU.
- Prepare Documentation: Have all relevant documents organized and easily accessible in your carry-on luggage.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of any policy changes by checking the USCIS website or subscribing to updates from trusted immigration news sources.
How Can You Avoid Future Issues?
- Update Your Visa: If possible, obtain a new visa that reflects your corrected name to avoid recurring issues.
- Regularly Check for Policy Updates: Immigration policies can change, so regularly check for updates that might affect your travel.
Next Steps: What Should You Do Now?
If you are planning to travel to the U.S. with an FNU designation on your B1/B2 visa, take the following steps:
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Verify Details: Check the details on both your old and new passports and ensure they are accurate.
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Prepare for Entry: Gather all necessary documents and be ready to explain your situation to CBP officers.
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Consult Legal Expertise: If you are unsure about any aspect of your travel, seek advice from a qualified immigration attorney who can provide guidance based on the latest policies.
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Stay Updated: Regularly review the USCIS and CBP websites for any changes that may impact your travel plans.
By following these guidelines, you can minimize potential disruptions and ensure a smoother travel experience to the United States. Remember, preparation and communication are key to navigating the complexities of international travel with an FNU designation.
About This Post
This analysis was inspired by a public discussion on Reddit: https://reddit.com/r/immigration/comments/1oer5mo/traveling_with_fnu_in_b1b2_visa_old_passport_and/
Immigration law is complex and constantly evolving. While this post provides general information based on current law and policy, every situation is unique.
This post provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws can change and your facts matter. To get advice for your situation, schedule a consultation with an attorney.
This post provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws can change and your facts matter. To get advice for your situation, schedule a consultation with an attorney.
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