How long does the whole process take?
Although you can legally change your name by Deed Poll and acquire your Deed Poll documentation just a few hours after applying, the actual process of getting your name changed can take two to eight weeks.
This is because the name change process isn’t complete until you have notified record holders (government departments, companies and organisations that hold your records) about your change of name – and to do this you will need to show them your Deed Poll document (or a legal copy).
So, changing your name (or your child's name) by Deed Poll is in fact a two-step process that depends on the following factors –
- How you apply for your Deed Poll (and the delivery service you request)
- How long you take to notify record holders of your name change
You can apply to change your name by Deed Poll online, by telephone or in person. Then, once you’ve applied for your Deed Poll, you can choose from a variety of postal delivery options from guaranteed next morning delivery to around one to two working days. Please click here for more information about the various different ways you can apply for a Deed Poll.
If you’re applying to change a child’s name by Deed poll and you don’t have sole PR (parental responsibility) you will also need to send us a letter of consent signed by everyone with PR. This can be posted, faxed or scanned and emailed to us. For more information about changing a child's name by Deed Poll, please click here.
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Sections in this article
Click on the links below to view each section of this article.
1. How long you take to notify record holders of your name change
2. Other costs involved in changing your name
This page was last checked today by Kate O'Connor, Senior Deed Poll Officer.