Changing your surname

You can change your surname in Northern Ireland to any name you choose, for any reason.

In most cases, you will need a deed poll. This is a legal document that sets out your former name and your new name.

Choosing a new surname

You need a deed poll to change to a surname you have not had before. This includes:

• a completely new surname
• a family surname you were not given at birth
• a surname you have been using informally

If you are getting married

You do not need a deed poll to take your spouse's surname. Your marriage certificate is your proof of the change.

For other changes, such as a double-barrelled or blended surname, you may need a deed poll. Find out more about changing your name when getting married.

Going back to a previous surname

Some organisations will accept your birth certificate, marriage certificate and divorce documents together as proof that you are going back to a previous surname. Others may ask for a deed poll.

This applies whether you are divorced, separated or still married. Find out more about changing your name after divorce.

If you are not married to your partner

You can take your partner's surname, or combine your surnames, without getting married. You will need a deed poll to do this. Find out more about sharing a surname without getting married.

Double-barrelled surnames

You can combine 2 surnames, in either order, with or without a hyphen. For example, Jones and Smith could become Jones-Smith or Smith Jones.

If you have a double-barrelled surname, you can also remove one part and keep the other.

The rules

Your new surname cannot include numbers or symbols, other than hyphens and apostrophes. It also cannot be offensive or used to mislead people. Find out more about names you cannot use.

Apply for a deed poll

It costs £25 to apply for a deed poll with the NI Deed Poll Office. You can pay by debit or credit card.