Who can change their name

You can change your name if you live in Northern Ireland and meet a few basic requirements.

You do this with a deed poll, a legal document that sets out your former name and your new name.

The requirements

You can change your name by deed poll if you:

• are 16 or over
• live in Northern Ireland
• understand what changing your name means

You do not need to give a reason, and you do not need anyone's permission.

Your nationality

You can change your name whatever your nationality or immigration status. Find out more about changing your name if you are not a UK or Irish citizen.

If you are 16 or 17

You can change your name without your parents' permission. Find out more about changing your name at 16 or 17.

If you are under 16

You cannot apply for a deed poll yourself. A parent or guardian must apply for a child deed poll on your behalf. Everyone with parental responsibility for you must agree to the change.

Understanding what changing your name means

You must understand what a deed poll is and what changing your name means. This protects people who may not be able to make the decision for themselves.

If you are worried about someone's ability to make this decision, a doctor or solicitor can assess it.

If you have a criminal record

You can change your name if you have a criminal record. You cannot change your name to avoid the law or your legal obligations.

If you are on the sex offenders register, you must tell the police your new name within 3 days.

If you are involved in criminal proceedings, you must tell the police about your new name.

If you have debts

Debts, bankruptcy and other money problems do not stop you from changing your name. Changing your name does not change what you owe.

You must tell your creditors your new name. Your credit file will link your old and new names, so your credit history stays with you.

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.