Changing your surname in Scotland is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require following certain legal steps to ensure the change is recognised by official institutions. Unlike in England and Wales, where a Deed Poll is the most common method for changing a name, Scotland offers multiple options, including the use of the National Records of Scotland (NRS). If you're considering a surname change, understanding the procedure will help you navigate the process smoothly.
Methods for Changing
Your Surname in Scotland
There are two main ways to change your surname
in Scotland:
By Common Usage
In Scotland, you are legally allowed to change
your name by simply starting to use a new one. This is known as ‘common usage’.
However, while this method is recognised in daily life, it may not always be
accepted by official bodies such as banks and passport offices, which usually
require formal documentation.
By Official
Registration with the National Records of Scotland (NRS)
If you want to ensure that your name change is
legally recognised by all government institutions, you must apply to have it
officially recorded with the NRS. This process involves:
Filling in the Correct Forms: You will need to
complete the "Application for Change of Name" form, which can be
obtained from the NRS website.
·
Providing
Identification - Documents such as a birth certificate and proof of address are
required.
·
Paying
a Fee - There is an administrative fee for processing the name change.
·
Receiving
an Updated Birth Certificate (if applicable) - If you were born in Scotland,
the new name can be added to your birth certificate.
Changing a Child’s
Surname in Scotland
If you are applying for a child's surname
change, additional rules apply. Both parents (or legal guardians) must consent
to the change unless one has sole parental responsibility. The process is
similar to that of an adult, but parental agreement is crucial to avoid
complications.
Deed Poll as an
Alternative for Changing Your Name in Scotland
Although the Deed Poll system is not the
official method of name change in Scotland, it is still widely used. A Deed
Poll is a legal document that serves as proof that you have abandoned your
previous name and adopted a new one. Many institutions, including banks and
employers, accept a Deed Poll as valid evidence of a name change.
Why Deed Poll is a
One-Stop Agency for Deed Poll Applications Online in Scotland
Deed Poll provides a quick and efficient way to
obtain legal proof of your name change. Their online service allows you to
apply for a Deed Poll from the comfort of your home, ensuring that you receive
an officially recognised document. With expert guidance, fast processing times,
and affordability, Deed Poll simplifies the entire name change procedure in
Scotland, making it the go-to choice for those seeking a hassle-free solution.
Summary: For deed poll application online and change of surname
Scotland,
what all you have to do is search for the top and recognised agency in this
domain where experts are providing complete assistance.