2. Births and adoptions registered in Scotland

The name on a birth certificate issued in Scotland can be changed in the following circumstances:

2.1    Changing a child's forename(s) who is under one year of age

If a child's forename(s) (but not surname) are changed within the first year of life, the change can be recorded in the birth register. However you will need to apply within two years of the child’s birth. The application will also need to be signed by everyone with PR (parental responsibility) for the child.

When the new certificate of birth entry is issued, the new name will be substituted for the name originally registered. The fee (as at January 2011) for recording a change of forename(s) is £55 (fee includes a new birth certificate).

Registering a name change in Scotland can be costly and time-consuming. As a result many parents who wish to change their child’s forenames do so by Deed Poll instead.

2.1.1  Changing a person's forename(s) and/or surname who is at least two years of age

For children aged two years or over, an application can be made to change the forename(s) and/or surname recorded in the birth register. However, as for any child under 16, the application must be signed by everyone with PR (parental responsibility).

The new birth certificate will show the original forename(s) and surname in addition to the new name. The fee (as at January 2011) for recording a change of name is £55 (fee includes a new birth certificate).

Registering a name change in Scotland can be costly and time-consuming. As a result many parents who wish to change their child’s forenames do so by Deed Poll instead.

2.1.2  If you have changed your gender and obtained a Gender Recognition Certificate

If you are at least 18 years of age, have gender dysphoria and have been living in your acquired gender for at least two years, you can apply to the Gender Recognition Panel for a Gender Recognition Certificate.

This will enable you to obtain a new birth certificate showing your new gender and name.  The new birth certificate can be used as documentary evidence of your change of name thus avoiding the need for a Deed Poll.

For further information click here to email the Name Change Unit at the General Registrar Office for Scotland or telephone them on 0131 314 4404.

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Sections in this article
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1.         Births and adoptions registered in England or Wales
2.         Births and adoptions registered in Scotland
3.         Births and adoptions registered in Northern Ireland

This page was last checked today by Suzanne Blackwell, Senior Deed Poll Officer.