British embassies, high commissions and consulates cannot issue certificates of name or change of name. Under UK law parents may give their child any forename or surname and you can change your surname or forename.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office provides standard letters to explain UK laws to local authorities when you’re abroad.
Change of name
If you’re asked to provide proof of UK law about changing your name download the relevant letter. You can get a signed and stamped version of a letter, which costs £50.
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Naming children
If you’re asked to provide proof of UK law about naming children download the relevant letter. You can get a signed and stamped version of a letter, which costs £50.
PDF, 200 KB, 1 page
This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.
Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email fcdo.correspondence@fcdo.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.
Last updated 18 December 2024
+ show all updates
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Portugal change of name letters added.
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United Arab Emirates (UAE) change of name letter added.
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All countries and territories letter removed.
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Link to get a signed and stamped letter added.
All countries and territories letter added. -
First published.