# How do I change my name in Scotland or Northern Ireland?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 July 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/change-name-scotland-northern-ireland/
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## In short

England and Wales adults usually use an unenrolled [deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/). Scotland often prefers a statutory declaration or NRS birth-record update if you were born/adopted there. Northern Ireland accepts a deed poll and also offers a paid GRONI “record a change of name” route with stricter change limits.

Northern Ireland: nidirect confirms you can [change your name by deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/) as proof for organisations, or record a change with the General Register Office for Northern Ireland (GRONI). The GRONI adult route (18+) currently involves a witnessed form (JP, lay magistrate or practising solicitor), a fee (around £35 to record, plus about £15 for a certificate), and limits — forename once; surname up to three times with five years between surname changes. Official page: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/recording-change-name

Scotland: if you were born or adopted in Scotland you can apply to National Records of Scotland for a name change recorded on your birth entry (new birth certificate). A statutory declaration before a notary or solicitor is the traditional Scottish evidence route; UK caseworker guidance also accepts change-of-name deeds. People born outside Scotland who live there commonly use a UK [deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll/) for HMPO, DVLA and banks.

For a fast unenrolled England/Wales/NI-style document accepted by most UK bodies, Instant Deed Poll’s [adult deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll/) PDF (from around £14.99) or [statutory declaration](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/statutory-declaration/) templates cover the paperwork — check which evidence your bank or council asks for before you pay for enrolment or GRONI recording.

## Related

- [Deed poll vs statutory declaration](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/deed-poll-vs-statutory-declaration-uk/)
- [Deed poll name change (UK)](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/deed-poll-name-change-uk/)
- [Do I need a deed poll?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/do-i-need-a-deed-poll-uk/)

## Primary source

nidirect.gov.uk/articles/recording-change-name

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.