Changing Your Name in Northern Ireland

If you live in Northern Ireland and want to change your name, you can use either a statutory declaration or a deed poll. Both documents are legally recognised throughout the United Kingdom.



This article explains both methods and the differences between them.

Name Changes in Northern Ireland

If you're 16 or over, you can change your name at any time. You don't need anyone's permission. You can change your first name, middle name, or surname.


To make your name change official, you need a legal document proving you've changed your name. This document allows you to update your records with organisations like government departments, banks, and employers.



Northern Ireland accepts two types of documents for name changes: statutory declarations and deed polls.

Statutory Declarations

A statutory declaration is the traditional way to change your name in Northern Ireland. You make a formal statement before a solicitor, notary public, or commissioner for oaths.


In the statement, you declare your old name and your new name. You confirm that you intend to use your new name for all purposes. A legal professional witnesses the statement and signs it to verify it was made correctly.


Statutory declarations are familiar to organisations in Northern Ireland. They've been the standard approach for many years. The involvement of a solicitor gives them a formal legal status.



Using a statutory declaration means paying professional fees. Solicitors usually charge £30 to £100 or more for witnessing. You'll need to book an appointment and visit the solicitor's office.

Deed Polls

A deed poll is a legal document stating your name change. It declares that you're giving up your old name and adopting your new name for all purposes.


To execute a deed poll, you sign it while two independent witnesses watch. Your witnesses must be adults who know you. They can't be related to you or live at the same address. Colleagues, friends, or neighbours can act as witnesses.


Deed polls are commonly used in England and Wales. They're also legally valid in Northern Ireland and across the United Kingdom. UK organisations in Northern Ireland must accept deed polls as proof of a name change.



While less traditional in Northern Ireland than statutory declarations, deed polls have practical benefits. The process is quicker and costs less. You don't need a solicitor's appointment or professional fees.


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

Comparing Your Options

Statutory declarations and deed polls achieve the same result. Both prove you've changed your name legally. Organisations across the UK accept both as valid proof.


The differences lie in how you obtain them and what they cost.


Statutory declarations:

  • Witnessed by a solicitor, notary public, or commissioner for oaths
  • Need a professional appointment
  • Professional fees of £30-£100+
  • Traditional method in Northern Ireland
  • Formal legal procedure


Deed polls:

  • Witnessed by two independent people
  • No appointment required
  • Lower cost
  • Common method in England and Wales
  • Equally valid in Northern Ireland


Whether you choose a statutory declaration or a deed poll, you can update all your official documents. This includes your passport, driving licence, bank details, and records with any other organisation.

Making Your Choice

The choice between a statutory declaration and a deed poll depends on your priorities.


If you prefer following the traditional Northern Ireland approach and you're comfortable with the cost and appointment process, a statutory declaration works well.


If you want a quicker, easier, and cheaper option, a deed poll provides the same legal status with fewer requirements. Deed polls are used widely across the UK. All organisations accept them.



Both documents have the same legal effect. The difference is in the process, not the outcome.

Change Your Name with a Deed Poll

If you're ready to change your name, you can apply for a deed poll online. The process is simple and your deed poll arrives by post within a few days.


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.