Travelling with a new second first name

[Vigdis]

This might seem like a minor problem, but would like to know what you think:

Leaving for Spain in March. I have just added a second first name together with the one I already have through authorities here in Norway. Should be nice using my new name on the Camino when introducing myself to other pilgrims, to make things a bit easier as the one I have is difficult to pronounce, and especially to remember, for other than Norwegians. Both my passport and flight tickets has only my main and old first name (and full surname of course). I don’t really want to spend money on renewing my passport before I have to (short of money for the time being), and the expiry date is in about 4 years time.

Would this matter at all you think? I mean, who would know on the airlines or at the customs while I’m travelling, and I can’t think of any situation where they should find out that I now actually have a double first name. If I ask the authorities here they would most likely say “change your passport” to make things correct, but could this get me into any trouble at all?
Would anybody know?

 

[William Marques]

This may vary from country to country but if you are changing your name due to marriage or any other reason then usually it is easier to travel initially under your old name and passport (as long as the passport and the tickets match), this is quite common for honeymoons. You can then update your passport at a later date when you will not be travelling for a number of weeks and can be without your passport.

 

[Kitsambler]

The rules for travelers arriving in, or transiting thru (whether planned or unplanned) the US are now quite strict. The ticket and your travel credential (passport, ID card, etc) must match EXACTLY. Spelling, initials, everything.

No ifs, ands, buts, or quibbles. This is causing even Americans quite a headache. And many of the European agencies are following the US protocol, either explicitly or for convenience.

So you may find it easier to go ahead with an early renewal of your credential.

That being said, none of your fellow pilgrims are likely to ever see your ticket or your passport, so you can introduce yourself to us as anything you like. In France, most pilgrims made lodging reservations using only their first name anyhow (so I'm told).

So, make sure your paperwork will satisfy the security authorities, and adopt whatever pilgrim persona is a good fit for you.

 

[Vigdis]

William; I guess you are right, as long as ticket and passport match, it shouldn't be a problem.
Thanks a lot for your reply

Kitsambler; As I say above, my ticket and my passport is showing the exact same name.
I've always wanted an international name, and I thought now, before going back to the Camino, was a good time to change (add) it
I like to call myself what I am called My only little worry was; would this extra name cause problems for me in Spain in any way, not with other pilgrims, but the authorities?
Thanks for your answer, Kitsambler