Who can apply for a deed poll?

Though the deed poll process is generally open to anyone resident in the United Kingdom, there are some restrictions you should be aware of before applying. We suggest that you read this page in full before making your application.

Your age

To apply for an adult deed poll you must be at least sixteen years of age, or approaching your sixteenth birthday. If you are under the age of 16 someone with parental responsibility must apply on your behalf for a child deed poll.

Please note: If you're applying for a child deed poll you will also need to obtain the permission of everyone else that holds parental responsibility for your child. In a normal situation only the mother and father will hold parental responsibility, but sometimes a step-parent or social worker may also need to give their permission. We have compiled a comprehensive guide to changing a child's name which we strongly recommend that you read before applying for a child deed poll.

Nationality and country of residence

Please jump ahead to the sub section which applies to you:

If you're a British citizen living in the United Kingdom

If you are British and live in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland) you can apply for a deed poll without any restrictions.

If you're a British citizen living outside of the United Kingdom

If you’re a British citizen living abroad you can apply for a deed poll to legally change the name on your British passport and then use your passport to have any foreign documents or records amended. We advise that you contact your local British mission to ensure that there are no special requirements to be met before they will issue a new passport.

If you're a foreign national living in the United Kingdom

If you are not a British citizen but you are living in the United Kingdom you can apply for a deed poll but we advise that you check with the consular services section of your country’s High Commission or Embassy in London before you submit your application to see if they will issue a passport in your new name using your Deed Poll as documentary evidence of your change of name. If your deed poll will be accepted, there may be special requirements for you to comply with before they’ll issue your new passport.