Wedding Tips
What to Expect When Changing Your Surname After Getting Married
Oct
Right after the big bash and after hearing all the well wishes, the next thing off the bride’s list is whether she is to change her surname or not. Is she going to take the groom’s surname? Add it to her own following a hyphen? Or simply keep her own name?
As the next big question right after the wedding day, many newlyweds and soon-to-be brides are not familiar with the steps needed to be taken to legally change your surname or update your status. Hence, the team at Giftware Direct is here to help you figure out how to go about the process efficiently so read on!
Who takes what?
In Australia, there are several options when it comes to surnames and newlywed couples, such as:
-
Taking your spouse’s surname.
-
Combine last names with or without a hyphen.
-
Create a different last name for both parties to use.
-
Retain both maiden names.
It is also possible for the wife to take on the new surname but only for selected occasions, such as retaining her surname for professional and financial matters but using the spouse’s surname for her passport, driver’s license, and other IDs.
Breaking down the process
If you have decided to take on your spouse’s surname or add a second last name to yours, then the first step is to secure an official copy of your marriage certificate from the Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages or BDM.
Check with your civil celebrant as the paperwork might have been filed after the wedding day. The certificate of marriage from BDM serves as your legal document which can prove your right to use your spouse’s last name so make sure you get several copies certified by a Justice of the Peace at your own state or territory.
Make a list of the company, accounts, stores or loyalty cards you would like to have your name changed. It may take several months for you to finally finish everything but having a list on hand can help you keep track of what you have and have not yet had changed.
Start with government identification cards and important documents. Your driver’s license is usually the easiest way to instantly have your new name printed onto a card. Armed with the official BDM-issued certificate of marriage, head to the Roads & Traffic Authority or Department of Transport of your corresponding state or territory to get started. For passports, make sure you are not planning on travelling overseas for your honeymoon as the process of changing your surname might take a while since the application is to be lodged via the post office.
Use government-issued photo ID to hasten the process with other establishments and companies. With membership cards, store loyalty cards, bank accounts, and subscription accounts, the process becomes easier once you have the government photo ID updated with the new surname.
Important Tip!
Since getting the marriage certificate from BDM and updating the passport might take a couple of weeks, make sure to book the honeymoon trip in the groom and the bride’s maiden names or their names as it appears in their old passports. Airline tickets are to be booked using your original surnames if you are planning on leaving instantly after tying the knot to avoid any mishaps at the check-in counter.
