Change of name

[Amelia W]

Hi, I am currently an Australian citizen about to apply for ILR after i have completed my 5 year ancestry visa. I married a British citizen in July 2014 and took on his surname for all documents apart from my Australian passport. As my passport is still in my maiden name, I believe the Biometric Residence Permit will also be in my maiden name. My Aus passport expires in Oct 2019 and I am planning on renewing this in my married name. After this, I had planned on applying for British citizenship (also in my married name). Am I correct in saying that i will need to change the name on my Biometric Residence permit first before applying for citizenship in my new name? I am wondering if there is a more straightforward way to address this?

[CR001]

Once you are granted ILR, you can apply for citizenship immediately, no need to wait 12 months.

Easiest will be to apply in your maiden name and get approval and your British passport. Then do a deed poll to change your name and reapply for a new British passport.

The other easiest option is to change your Australian passport, then apply immediately for citizenship as the Spouse of British citizen, assuming you meet all the requirements, as then no need to change the BRP card first.