Quote Originally Posted by -sillybilly- View Post
To stop your worries i would recommend that you get a new passport. Change of status and renewal of passport aswell. My passport was still valid but soon be applying for a spouse visa. So i decided to get it change the name for my own peace of mind too.

because you never know what its going to be like when you submit your application. Passporting is now by appointment as they will need your appearance for the biometric so its best to have a new one.

I had mine changed of name using my spouse name as i was going to apply for the visa. I wanted everything clear when they look at my papers and not raise any doubts and questions wherever you go.

Few things you need to do though if you want to change your status, that means you will have to use your spouse name and so you will have to attend the guidance and counselling from the CFO which is now required by the DFA for every applicant using foreign spouse's name.
for what i know, DFA is not requiring women to change their surname even when married so I decide to retain my maiden name. I really wanted to change/renew my passport however I cant because I already submitted a copy to the school and passport number will change if I renew.