How to Change Your Name in Northern Ireland

If you live in Northern Ireland and want to change your name, a deed poll is the quickest and cheapest option available to you. You can apply online and have your deed poll delivered to your email in under 1 hour.

How Name Changes Work in Northern Ireland

Anyone aged 16 or over in Northern Ireland can change their name at any time, for any reason. No permission is needed. You can change your first name, middle name, surname, or any combination.


There is no government fee or registration process. You do not need to apply to a court or notify any government body. You simply need a legal document as proof of your name change. This document is what you use to update your records with government departments, banks, employers, and other organisations.



There are two types of document you can use: a deed poll or a statutory declaration.

Deed Polls

A deed poll is a legal declaration that you are abandoning your old name and adopting a new one. It is recognised across the entire United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland. All UK organisations must accept it as proof of a name change.


You apply online and your deed poll is emailed to you in under 1 hour. Print it, then sign it in front of two independent witnesses. Witnesses must be over 18, know you personally, and not be family members or live at your address. Work colleagues, friends or neighbours all qualify.


Your deed poll becomes legally binding as soon as it is signed and witnessed. You can then update your passport, driving licence, bank accounts and any other official records.


The cost is £13. No solicitor is required and there is no appointment to arrange.



You can find out more about the deed poll process in our deed poll guide.

Statutory Declarations

A statutory declaration is a more traditional way to change your name in Northern Ireland. It involves making a formal statement before a solicitor, notary public, or commissioner for oaths.


You must book an appointment with a legal professional, attend in person, and have them witness and sign the document. Solicitors in Northern Ireland typically charge between £30 and £100 or more for this service.



A statutory declaration has no legal advantage over a deed poll. Both documents carry the same legal weight and are accepted by all the same organisations.

How They Compare

Deed polls and statutory declarations both achieve the same outcome. The difference is practical.


Deed Polls:

  • Emailed to you in under 1 hour
  • Cost £13
  • No solicitor or appointment required
  • Witnessed by two independent adults
  • Accepted by all UK organisations


Statutory Declarations:

  • Require a solicitor, notary or commissioner for oaths
  • Cost £30-£100+ in fees
  • Require an in-person appointment
  • Can take days or weeks to arrange
  • No additional legal standing over a deed poll

Which Should You Choose?

A deed poll is the right choice for most people. It costs a fraction of the price, takes a fraction of the time, and carries the same legal validity as a statutory declaration.



Statutory declarations remain an option if you prefer the traditional approach. But there is no practical or legal benefit to choosing one over a deed poll.

Updating Your Documents and Records

After signing and witnessing your name change document, you can begin updating your records immediately. Every UK organisation, including those in Northern Ireland, must accept it.


Provide your document directly to each organisation. Most require an original signed copy. Important organisations to notify include HM Passport Office, DVLA, your bank, your employer, your GP and HMRC, among others.

Change Your Name with a Deed Poll

If you're ready to change your name, you can apply online and receive your deed poll by email within 1 hour, ready to print and use immediately.


Each deed poll is individually drafted and includes a seal and serial number.


After you sign it with your witnesses, it becomes legally valid. Organisations across the UK, including in Northern Ireland, accept it as proof of your name change.