Sharing a Surname Without Getting Married
Unmarried couples in Northern Ireland can share a surname without getting married. One or both of you change your name by deed poll, and you do not need to prove your relationship to anyone.
How it Works
Each partner who changes their name needs their own deed poll. There is no such thing as a joint or couple's deed poll, and each person signs only their own document.
The process is the same as any other name change. Our guide to changing your name in Northern Ireland explains it in full.
Your Options
One partner takes the other's surname
One of you changes your surname to match your partner's. For example, Sarah Jones and David Smith could become Sarah Smith and David Smith. Only the partner changing their name needs a deed poll.
Both partners choose a new surname
You can both change to a surname neither of you currently has. Sarah Jones and David Smith could both become Taylor. Each of you needs your own deed poll.
You can choose almost any surname. See our article on what you can change your name to for the restrictions.
Children and Family Names
Children do not need to share a surname with their parents, but many families prefer everyone to match.
You can change your names to match your children's, or change theirs to match yours. Changing a child's name requires consent from everyone with parental responsibility, and our guide to changing your child's name explains how it works.
The Process
- Decide which surname you will use
- Each partner applies for their own deed poll
- Sign and witness your deed polls
- Use them to update your documents and records
You do not need to apply at the same time, but applying together means you can update your documents together and avoid a period of mismatched names.
If You Separate Later
Changing your name to match a partner does not tie your name to the relationship. If you separate, you can keep the name, revert to your previous name, or choose something new. Reverting requires a new deed poll, the same as any other name change.
Common Questions
Do we need to prove we are in a relationship?
No. You do not need to provide any proof of your relationship, and no organisation will ask for it. Your deed poll is complete on its own.
Can we choose any surname?
Yes. It does not need to be a surname either of you currently has, as long as it meets the standard restrictions on names.
What if only one of us wants to change?
Only the partner changing their name needs a deed poll. The other keeps their current name, and nothing further is needed.
Ready to Share a 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.