Applying for Settlement: do I need to update BRP 1st?

[bryn78]

Hello,

I'll be applying (hopefully in person) for Settlement, after 2 years on a spousal visa married to a UK citizen (and several years prior as student, post-student, etc.).

Because my US passport had my maiden name on it at the time of applying for my spousal visa/BRP card, my BRP card therefore currently still has my maiden name on it. My US passport is now updated to show my married name, but my BRP card is not yet updated.

My question is this:

When I apply for Settlement as the spouse of a UK citizen, will it be acceptable to have my new US passport (showing my married name), and my BRP card (showing my maiden name), as they'll presumably be issuing me a new BRP card anyhow, to reflect my new status?

Or is it mandatory I get a new BRP card to match my US passport BEFORE this application? I'm obviously hoping that's not the case, as it will be further time (at least 6 months, from the sound of it) and money to get the BRP card to reflect my new name, only to then turn around and hand it over to the Home Office, who will just be issuing me a new one to reflect my new Settlement status anyhow...

Any ideas greatly appreciated!

Thanks so much for your help! These boards have been very useful over the last several years.

[CR001]

No need to update BRP. Your marriage certificate will show your change in surname.