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Name Change Question

sofarsofia

Newbie
Jan 21, 2020
1
0
Hello,
Not quite sure if I'm in the right forum area so please redirect me as needed.

Currently a permanent resident residing in Canada, married to a Canadian citizen. I didn't take my husband's last name just because I didn't want to change all my still valid documents (passport, etc) while we were applying for my PR status. Didn't have any further reason to change my name after moving here, still very much happily married.

For the actual questions:
1. Has anyone experienced any difficulties regarding their citizenship application/paperwork for having a different surname than their spouse?
2. Would it be better if I change my name before hand?
3. Would changing my name mean I have to change the names on my PR card and passport too? (FYI, my passport from my origin country expired mid 2019, opted not to renew it because we are planning on completing and submitting my citizenship paperwork on Feb 2020.)

Thanks!
 

PMM

VIP Member
Jun 30, 2005
25,494
1,946
Hi

Hello,
Not quite sure if I'm in the right forum area so please redirect me as needed.

Currently a permanent resident residing in Canada, married to a Canadian citizen. I didn't take my husband's last name just because I didn't want to change all my still valid documents (passport, etc) while we were applying for my PR status. Didn't have any further reason to change my name after moving here, still very much happily married.

For the actual questions:
1. Has anyone experienced any difficulties regarding their citizenship application/paperwork for having a different surname than their spouse?
2. Would it be better if I change my name before hand?
3. Would changing my name mean I have to change the names on my PR card and passport too? (FYI, my passport from my origin country expired mid 2019, opted not to renew it because we are planning on completing and submitting my citizenship paperwork on Feb 2020.)

Thanks!

1. Unlikely as all you secondary documents are in your maiden name. Especially true in Quebec, where spouses by law keep their maiden name.
2. No, not necessary.
3. You would have have to change your PR card, unless you wanted to Carry your marriage certificate around to explain the difference if asked.
4. If you are satisfied with using your maiden name, keep it.
 

akbardxb

Champion Member
Nov 18, 2013
1,244
463
Mississauga
LANDED..........
28-03-2014
My wife uses her maiden name. All her papers - degrees, passport etc are in the maiden name. Did not have any problem even while applying for immigration or citizenship. Unless you feel it is really important to take your spouse’s family name, why bother?