Applying for FLR...can I wait to change my name on my passport?

Hello!  I received a fiancee Visa that expires April 4th and our wedding is scheduled for March 13th so we are cutting it close.  We are going to hand in my FLR application in personal instead of posting it because of time constraints.  My question is can I wait to have my last name changed on my passport til AFTER I get my FLR or is that a requirement to get an FLR Visa?  My passport is still valid, not expired.  I have no problem doing it but right now...from when I get married we will have like 2-3 weeks to get the FLR visa so I'm not sure if that is enough time to get my name changed on my passport. 
Someone PLEASE HELP ME!!  Thanks!!

You do not have to change your name on your passport unless you want to ....there is no legal requirement that you MUST do it.

Your FLR(M) will be issued in the Name that is on your passport when you apply. Your application must be filled out in the name that is on your passport as well as the name that is on the back of your photo must be as the name on your passport.

If you do want to change your name on your passport be aware that when you travel you will need to:

1. Carry both your old & new passports plus your marriage certificate.

OR

2. Pay UKBA (again) to transfer your visa from your old passport to your new passport.

If your passport is no where near expiring, then why not wait until just before you apply for ILR that way you're only going to have to carry 1 passport when you travel & you won't have to shell out any more ££'s to UKBA to move your visa.

Thanks for explaining this...yes my passport doesn't expire for another 9 years.

Thanks for explaining this...yes my passport doesn't expire for another 9 years.

Then if changing your name is not really a big deal, don't until you need to renew your US Passport. By then, if you want, you'll probably have a British Passport anyway since you will qualify for Naturalisation in just over 2 1/2 years from now.

You can use your married name (if you want) for all things UK based (except visas and travelling such as plane tickets) just by showing your passport in your maiden name & your Marriage Certificate.