Recording Change of Forename or Surname

All applications for Change of Name should be made to:

General Register Office
Change of Name Unit
New Register House
Edinburgh EH1 3YT

Who can have a change of Forename(s) or Surname(s) recorded?

Any person whose birth is registered in Scotland or who was legally adopted in Scotland can apply to have a change of forename(s) or surname(s) recorded.

Any application for a change to be recorded in respect of a child under 16 years of age must be made by a qualified applicant (parent/guardian).

After reaching 16 years of age a person may apply at any time for a change of forename(s) or surname(s) to be recorded.

Please note that any birth certificate issued subsequent to the recording of the change will show the new forename(s) and surname(s) with the original forename(s) and surname(s) shown separately.

 

 

 

Page last updated: 20 March 2025