Changing Your Surname in Northern Ireland
You can change your surname in Northern Ireland with a deed poll. You can take any surname you choose, and you don't need to give a reason.
The one exception is marriage, covered below.
When You Need a Deed Poll
If you're taking your spouse's surname when you marry, you don't need a deed poll. Your marriage certificate is enough to update your passport, driving licence, and bank accounts.
For every other surname change, you need a deed poll to update your official documents.
This includes:
- Taking a partner's surname without being married
- Double-barrelling your surname with your spouse's, rather than taking theirs outright
- Reverting to your previous surname after marriage or divorce
- Changing to a family surname you weren't given at birth
- Choosing a completely new surname
Changing Your Surname When You Marry
Taking your spouse's surname needs no deed poll. Your marriage certificate is your evidence, and you use it to update your documents the same way you would a deed poll.
Anything beyond a straight swap does need a deed poll. If you want to double-barrel both surnames, blend them, or make any other change, the marriage certificate alone won't cover it. Find out more about changing your surname when getting married.
Reverting to a Previous Surname
If you took a spouse's surname and want to return to your previous one, you need a deed poll. Your birth certificate and old documents are not sufficient on their own.
This applies whether you're divorced, separated, or still married. Find out more about changing your surname after divorce.
Couples Who Aren't Married
You can take your partner's surname, or double-barrel with it, without being married.
This requires a deed poll, and the process is the same as any other surname change in NI. Find out more about surname changes for unmarried couples.
The Rules
Your new surname cannot include numbers or symbols (except hyphens and apostrophes), cannot be offensive, and cannot be chosen to mislead. Beyond that, any surname is allowed.
For the full restrictions, see our article on what you can change your name to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go back to my maiden name without a deed poll?
Usually not for all purposes. Some organisations accept your marriage certificate and birth certificate together, but many require a deed poll, which removes the doubt and is accepted everywhere. Our article on changing your surname after divorce covers this in full.
Can I take my partner's surname if we're not married?
Yes. A deed poll lets you take any surname, including a partner's, and you don't need their permission. Our article on surname changes for unmarried couples explains how it works.
Can I double-barrel my surname?
Yes. You can combine your surname with a partner's or spouse's, in either order, with or without a hyphen. You can also later remove one part and keep the other.
Ready to Change Your Surname?
Apply online and receive your deed poll by post within days. Each document is drafted to Northern Irish requirements, printed on parchment paper and embossed with a seal.
Once signed and witnessed, it is legally binding and guaranteed to be accepted in Northern Ireland and throughout the UK.