Changing Your Name in Wales

If you live in Wales and want to change your name, you can do it at any time using a deed poll. The process is the same as in England and is recognised across the United Kingdom.



This article explains how name changes work in Wales and what you need to do.

How Name Changes Work in Wales

Wales follows the same rules as England for name changes. There is no separate Welsh process or additional requirements.

You can change your forename, middle name, surname, or any combination. You don't need permission from a court, council, or any government body.



Anyone aged 16 or over who lives in Wales can change their name. You can do it for any reason, at any time.

Deed Polls

A deed poll is a legal document that confirms your name change. It states that you are giving up your old name and adopting a new one for all purposes.

A deed poll is the standard and most widely used method for changing your name in England and Wales. It is legally binding and accepted by all organisations across the United Kingdom.



You use your deed poll to update your records with government departments, banks, employers, and other organisations.

How to Change Your Name by Deed Poll

The process has three steps.

First, you apply for your deed poll. You provide your current legal name and the new name you want to use. Your deed poll will be delivered to you by post within a few days.

Next, sign your deed poll in front of two independent witnesses. Your witnesses must be aged 18 or over. They must know you personally. They cannot be related to you or live at your address. Friends, neighbours or work colleagues are all suitable.

Both witnesses must also sign your deed poll. Once everyone has signed, your deed poll is legally binding and your name is officially changed.

Finally, use your deed poll to update your name with organisations. This includes your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, and any other official records.



For more detail on the signing and witnessing process, see our guide to executing your deed poll.

Who Can Change Their Name in Wales

You can change your name if you are aged 16 or over and live in Wales. There are no restrictions on nationality or citizenship. British citizens and foreign nationals living in Wales can both use a deed poll.

You don't need to give a reason for changing your name.

If you are changing a child's name, different rules apply. See our guide to changing your child's name by deed poll.

Updating Your Records

Your deed poll is legally valid across the entire United Kingdom. All organisations in Wales and the rest of the UK must accept it as proof of your name change.

This includes government departments such as HM Passport Office and DVLA, as well as banks, employers, the NHS, and all other organisations.

Once your deed poll is signed and witnessed, you can start updating your records straight away. Contact each organisation and provide your deed poll as evidence of your name change.

Most will need to see your original signed deed poll. We recommend printing and signing multiple copies so you can update several organisations at the same time.

Change Your Name in Wales

If you're ready to change your name, you can apply for a deed poll online.



Apply online and receive your deed poll by post within a few days. Once signed and witnessed, your deed poll is legally binding and accepted by all UK organisations.