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Names
Introduction
Purpose
Where the name comes from
Confirming identity
Evidence of a change of name
Marriage Certificate
Enrolled Deed Poll
Adoption Order/Certificate
Certificate from the Court of the Lord Lyon of Scotland
Act of Parliament
Certificate of Naturalisation/Registration
Statutory Declaration
Unenrolled deed poll / change of name deed
Minor changes to adult's forenames
Renewal applications
Minor changes to adult's surname
Unacceptable or unusual changes of name on passports
Numbers, Symbols and Punctuation Marks (Diacritical characters and accent
characters)
Potentially Vulgar, Offensive or Blasphemous Names
Potentially Unlawful Names
Linked Applications with Unusual or Unacceptable Names
Trade marks
Commercial Gain
Strings of words or Phrases
Presumed Titles
Other unusual names
Multiple changes of name
Stage and religious names
Customary names
The prefix/suffix Junior (Jr)
Titles
Children’s name changes
Re-registration of birth where a name has changed
Incorrect details on birth certificate
Religious/cultural names
Divorce Documents for change of name or reversion to maiden/previous
name
Different signatures
One name
Welsh names
Irish names
Annex A – Religious/cultural names
Introduction
A passport should be issued in the name that the holder uses for all purposes.
It is, therefore, important that documentary evidence is provided so that the
Identity and Passport Service (IPS) can be satisfied that the passport is
issued in the name that a person has assumed.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish an applicant's name, and where the
applicant has changed their name, provide and record a clear link between
the previous name(s) and the present name and ensure there is no existing
passport not declared in any previous name held.
All applications involving a change of name, whether the application is for a
first passport, renewal or replacement passport, need to be examined
carefully. Changes of name can be used in connection with some types of
fraud or in an attempt to avoid arrest by committing identity theft / create a
clean identity. It is therefore important to be sure that:
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The applicant has gone through a formal process to record a change of
name;
There are no indications of fraud in the application;
Previous and new names are checked on the system for other
passports
Case notes / iCase notes are made on the records of the previous
passport and the current issue to record the link between the names.
Where the name comes from
A person takes their name at birth, and this name is either shown on their
birth certificate, adoption certificate, naturalisation/registration certificate,
foreign birth certificate, gender recognition certificate or previous passport. It
forms the root of their identity and in most cases they will use this name for all
purposes. It is possible for an amended birth certificate showing a changed
name to be issued in certain circumstances. Please see the Birth Certificates
page. These can be accepted without further evidence of change of name if
the applicant is using the name stated on the document. Examiners should
check the system to ensure that there are no passports in the original name.
Confirming identity
When an application has been received and that application has a change of
name, examiners should be applying the confirming identity process outlined
in the policy and procedures guide in conjunction with this policy.
Examiners should also remember, even if there is a marriage certificate
submitted, it is vital the maiden name is checked to ensure there is no
passport in those details and that the maiden name is case noted and added
to passport notes.
Evidence of a change of name
Documents should be either the original, a certified copy issued by the
Registry Office or a copy certified by a Solicitor, a Commissioner of Oaths,
Notary of the Public or Justice of Peace. The following are all acceptable
documents only if they show a clear link between the name shown on the root
document, and the current name. Where there has been more than one
change of name the applicant should provide sufficient documentary evidence
to show a clear link between the original name as shown on the root
document and the current name.
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Marriage certificate
Civil Partnership certificate
Gender Recognition certificate
Enrolled deed poll
Unenrolled deed poll/Change of name deed
Adoption order/certificate (these will not normally be provided as a
change of name evidence)
Certificate from the Court of the Lord Lyon of Scotland
Act of Parliament
Certificate of Naturalisation/Registration
Statutory Declaration / Affidavit
Baptismal/Confirmation certificate (for Christians names only)
Birth Certificate (upon re-registration)
Marriage Certificate
See also Marriage.
A marriage certificate that records the applicant’s current and previous names
may be accepted provided it shows the link between the current name and the
name on the source document. Examiners must ensure system checks are
completed on all previous names.
When a person is reverting from their married name to their maiden name, the
applicant must produce a birth certificate along with section 9 of the
application form signed and a statement confirming the reversion for all
purposes. There should be a clear link between all the names; if not then
examiners need to request documentary evidence to link all the names.
If a decree absolute is submitted that shows both the former and the present
name, it may be accepted as evidence of the change of name provided it
shows the link between the name on the source document and the current
name.
If a first time application is submitted along with a marriage certificate, the
examiner must ensure checks are completed on all previous names.
When a married couple decide to take each other’s name as a double
barrelled surname and the examiner can clearly see how the name is derived,
the application record should be case noted and the name accepted; this also
applies to Civil Partnerships. Please see Civil Partnership. Examiners must
ensure that all combinations of the name have been checked.
Where a person has married and upon marriage has not changed their name,
this may be accepted. Where the examiner is aware that a person has
married and claims only to use their maiden name or previous name and not
the new married name, then the system should be browsed using the married
name.
Where a person changes their name on marriage but continues to use their
maiden name professionally, a statement to such effect must be obtained.
The person can make a statement either in section 8 of the application form or
as a separate document. The passport should be issued in the married name
and an observation showing the maiden name should be added:
"THE HOLDER IS ALSO KNOWN AS (full forenames and surname)"
See Observations on Passports
The current process for a woman taking the husband's name upon marriage is
that they produce the marriage certificate as evidence; this process also
applies when a husband upon marriage is taking the wife’s name, or when a
civil partner upon a civil partnership ceremony is taking their partner’s name.
As the link of the names would be evident on the marriage / civil partnership
certificate, examiners would not need to request a change of name deed.
An applicant applying for a passport in a future married name must submit, in
addition to the appropriate supporting documents and photographs, a
completed PD2 form (available from application outlets and Regional Offices
and IPS website). The application form must be completed and signed in the
future married name this also applies to Civil Partnerships. Please see Civil
Partnership.
Enrolled Deed Poll
These are deed polls that have been enrolled in the Central Office of the
Supreme Court of Judicature.
Adoption Order/Certificate
An adoption order issued by the courts showing the full details and the new
name can be exceptionally accepted in cases whereby the actual certificate
has not yet been received. See Adoption - Contact details confirming
information relating to Adoption Certificates
Examiners must take care to ensure the court order provided is the true
authorisation granting the adoption made under section 12 of the Adoption Act
1976.
A freeing for adoption order (section 18 Adoption Act '76) and interim adoption
order (section 25 Adoption Act '76) are not accepted. See also Children.
Where a renewal application has been submitted with an adoption certificate
examiners must obtain a fully countersigned form and certified photograph.
The original passport must be cancelled on the system.
Certificate from the Court of the Lord Lyon of Scotland
Any person wishing to change their name can petition the Lord Lyon for
recognition of a change of name.
Act of Parliament
Only on very rare occasions may a person seek a special Act of Parliament to
change their name. If a person has used this method to change their name it
must be referred to Policy section for confirmation.
Certificate of Naturalisation/Registration
Where an applicant has naturalised/registered, the passport should be issued
in the name shown on the certificate unless evidence of a change of name
after the certificate has been issued is submitted. However where the
applicant has been married before the Nat/Reg certificate was issued, then
we can issue according to the marriage certificate if the applicant provides a
signed statement that they are using their married name for all purposes.
Please also see Naturalisation Certificates – Names.
It is rare for the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) to re-issue a
naturalisation certificate in a new name unless they have sufficient evidence.
However if it is a UKBA error, the applicant must first be referred back to
UKBA for a re-issue of the certificate. If UKBA do not re-issue, they must be
informed of the other methods of changing their name in order for us to issue
a passport.
All checks must be carried out on all first time applications from individuals
who have obtained British nationality by Naturalisation or Registration and
who have changed their name from that shown on the nationality document.
Examiners must ensure that the previous name (as shown on the
naturalisation certificate) is entered into the previous name field and that there
has been no other passport issued in that identity.
Naturalisation and Registration documents submitted in support of
applications where there is a change of name must be scanned as supporting
documentation.
Where a naturalisation certificate has been produced in support of a passport
application, if the naturalisation certificate shows the maiden name, and the
application form shows the married name, examiners should request the
marriage certificate to confirm this.
Please also see Naturalisation Certificates and Registration Certificates.
Statutory declaration
A statutory declaration is a written statement of fact that is signed in the
presence of:
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a Solicitor
a Notary of the Public
a Justice of the Peace
a Commissioner for Oaths
any other qualified person authorised by law to administer an oath.
To make a false declaration is punishable through the courts.
Under the provisions of section 81 of the Solicitors Act 1974, solicitors in
England and Wales holding a current practising certificate have the same
powers as a Commissioner for Oaths for the purpose of authenticating a
Statutory Declaration.
Officers of the armed services with the rank of Major, Lieutenant Commander,
or Squadron Leader and above and the British Diplomatic and Consular
Officers in post abroad may authenticate a Statutory Declaration.
Specimen examples of a Statutory Declaration are held in each office and
may be made available to applicants who should be advised that the person
drawing up and authenticating the document would expect a fee for the
service.
Where an application has been submitted with a statutory declaration, this can
be accepted providing that the statutory declaration has been signed in the
new name. Some statutory declarations may be signed in both the new and
the old name, these can also be accepted. If the statutory declaration is only
signed in the old name then examiners should request a new statutory
declaration showing the new name.
It is a legal requirement that statutory declarations contain the wording below.
If a statutory declaration is received where this wording is not included, it will
not be acceptable for passport purposes:
“I (name) do solemnly and sincerely declare, that/as follows.. .. .. .. and I
make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true,
and by virtue of the provisions of the Statutory Declarations Act 1835.”
Affidavit
An affidavit is a written statement from a person which has been sworn to be
true (an oath) which is signed by the affiant (the person making the oath) and
also a notary public or other judicial officer that administered the oath. Falsely
swearing an affidavit is punishable under the Perjury Act. In general, an
affidavit is likely to be acceptable where a stat dec would be, provided the
wording of the oath covers the changes required and includes the relevant
details, date, signature etc.
Unenrolled deed poll / change of name deed
These are deed polls that have not been endorsed by the Central Office of the
Supreme Court.
A change of name deed is a legal document which enables an individual or a
family to officially change his/her or their name and is bound to contract. It is a
type of deed poll and the informal usage is usually referred to simply as a
deed poll.
Deed polls obtained from the Internet can be accepted. Unless there is reason
to doubt the authenticity of the document, an unenrolled deed poll is
acceptable even if it is witnessed by someone other than a Solicitor or
Commissioner for Oaths.
When dealing with applicants, it is imperative staff make no comments that
could be construed as defamatory regarding the deeds and/or companies
who issue change of name deeds. The deed poll must be attested, that is the
signature of the person changing their name must be witnessed. The person
acting as a witness does not have to be a Solicitor or Commissioner for
Oaths. An unenrolled deed poll can only be accepted however if it has been
signed in both the new and the old name. If the deed poll is only showing the
new signature, the examiner must reject the application and request a new
change of name deed with both signatures.
Where an application has been submitted with a change name deed which
has been made on behalf of a family, then this can be accepted for passport
purposes. The individual does not need to be named on the change of name
deed, provided the link between the applicant and the person named in the
deed has been clearly established by the way of supporting documentation.
Minor changes to adult's forenames
When a first time adult application has been received with a minor change
such as the changing of the spelling in a forename (e.g. Lesley/Leslie),
changing the order in which their forenames appear or dropping a forename,
in all cases the applicant should be advised either by telephone or by letter
that we will issue the passport in the name shown on the certificate with an
observation to show the holder is also known as <name shown on the
application form>, unless the applicant provides evidence to show otherwise.
The examiner must ensure the name shown at section 2 is changed to reflect
that shown on the certificate, and a case note / iCase note must be added to
explain the difference in the names. The OBTO observation must be shown
on the passport. When someone is adding a forename then evidence of
change of name is needed. Examiners must check all names on the
system.
Minor changes can be the changing of the spelling (such as Bryan/Brian),
changing the order in which their forenames appear or dropping a forename.
The following documentary evidence can be accepted.
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Letter from Council (Department of Work and Pension or Other
Government Departments)
Driving License
Bank Statement
Baptismal/Confirmation Certificate
Change of name deed
System checks should be carried out on all variations of the names.
For information on minor changes to children's forenames, please see the
Children's Change of Name page.
Renewal applications
Where the applicant is renewing their passport the normal process is we issue
like for like. If the applicant has changed their forename (e.g. application form
shows Micheal but the previous passport shows Michael) examiners can
make the appropriate amendments and issue as per previous passport.
Where the applicant is renewing their passport and has changed their
forenames (e.g. application form shows Jacqui previous passport shows
Jackie) examiners must contact the applicant to explain passport will be
issued as per previous passport unless documentary evidence is provided.
Where an applicant is 16 or over and renewing/replacing their passport and
there is an observation “the holder is also known as” in the passport
examiners should issue like for like unless the applicant wishes to remove the
observation.
If an applicant has too many forenames to fit into the passport then normal
procedures apply whereby we show as many names as possible and the
remaining one as initials. If the applicant does not wish to do this then they
may drop the last middle name(s). In these cases an observation can be
added showing the person’s entire name.
When an applicant has added a forename the examiner should normally
request a change of name deed (or one of the other standard forms of
evidence – Please see Evidence of a Change of Name above), but where the
name has been added to a Baptismal/Confirmation certificate, as long as the
key details (names) between the birth certificate and the
Baptismal/Confirmation certificate remain the same then they can be
accepted as evidence of change of name, e.g.
Birth certificate in the name of - Susan Davies
Baptismal/Conformation certificate in the name of - Susan Joan Davies
This also applies where a woman or man has added their maiden name as a
forename: as long as the key details (names) between the birth certificate and
the marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate remain the same then
this can be accepted.
Minor changes to adult’s surname
When a minor change has been made to the surname (e.g. Smith – Smithe),
the applicant should be advised either by telephone or by letter that we will
issue the passport in the name shown on the certificate with an observation to
show the holder is also known as <name shown on the application form>
unless the applicant provides one of the standard forms of evidence - please
see Evidence of a Change of Name above. Examiners must check all
versions of the names on the system.
Where an applicant has removed/added a hyphen in cases of double
barrelled surname, this can be accepted without documentary evidence as the
name still remains the same. However a system check should be carried out
on all combinations of the surname to check for any previous passports and to
help prevent/detect any potential fraud. A system check must be undertaken
for all minor changes.
Unacceptable or unusual changes of name on passports
Background
There are a small but increasing number of passport applications with
requests for change of names to unusual or unacceptable names. In some
cases it appears that the applicant has had no real intention of changing his or
her name for all purposes. In other cases, the name chosen may be offensive
or inappropriate for use on a passport.
Although individuals may call themselves any name they wish provided it is
not for a fraudulent purpose or against the law, the Identity and Passport
Service (IPS) has a duty to ensure the reputation of the UK passport is not
called into question or brought into disrepute as a result of an unacceptable or
inappropriate name.
In addition, a British passport is an important document of identity and
nationality and it should therefore be in the name used for all official purposes.
Whilst IPS acknowledges that persons may call themselves what they
choose, this policy is to explain the type of name that may be shown on the
British passport. It is not a government policy on names but an IPS policy on
what names may or may not be acceptable for passport purposes.
Examiners should be aware that some applicants may justify their unusual
change of names by reference to Article 8 of the European Convention on
Human Rights. This Article states that:
1. Everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life, his
home and his correspondence.
2. There shall be no interference by a public authority with the exercise of
this right except such as is in accordance with the law and is necessary
in a democratic society in the interests of national security, public
safety or the economic well-being of the country, for the prevention of
disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, or for the
protection of the rights and freedoms of others.
Applicants may claim that IPS is breaching their Human Rights by refusing to
issue a passport in the name requested. However, Article 8 is a qualified
Right which means that the Government or a public authority may be allowed
to add a restriction in certain circumstances provided the restriction is
necessary and proportionate.
How to apply this policy
The name registered on a United Kingdom birth certificate will be acceptable
for use in a British passport.
Where any applicant changes his or her name from that on the birth
certificate, they must provide evidence to show that they have changed their
name for all purposes.
Unless otherwise stated within this policy, IPS will refuse to recognise a
change of name supported by a deed poll or a statutory declaration if it:
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Includes numbers or symbols
Includes punctuation marks other than hyphens or apostrophes
Is vulgar, offensive or blasphemous
Is unlawful or promotes criminal activities
Is made for a bet or frivolous purpose - including linked applications
is trade marked, or subject to copyright
Is made for purely commercial reasons
Is a combination of names which makes up a phrase or saying not
normally considered to be a name
Is potentially against the law – for example promotes racial or religious
hatred, derides those of recognised minority groups, or promotes the
use of controlled drugs.
Is a presumed title that falls outside the policy on Presumed Titles.
A deed poll enrolled in The Royal Courts of Justice or the General Register
Office, New Register House, Edinburgh will be normally be acceptable without
additional evidence, as unusual/unacceptable names are generally rejected
before a deed poll may be enrolled. This excludes numbers and symbols as
IPS computer systems do not recognise them - see numbers and symbols
below. Each change of name should still be considered within the context of
the detailed guidelines.
In certain circumstances provided the name is not offensive, or blasphemous,
does not include symbols or numbers and has not been changed for a
frivolous purpose, consideration should be given to including the name as an
observation (‘the holder is also known as …….’) on production of
documentary evidence that the name is used for all purposes.
Where an applicant has an unusual change of name that does not fall within
the above categories they will need to provide additional evidence that they
have changed their name for all purposes and have been using that name.
Further details of acceptable evidence may be found under ‘Other Names’.
Numbers, Symbols and Punctuation Marks (Diacritical
characters and accent characters)
The computer system used to produce British passports does not allow the
use of numbers, symbols or punctuation marks other than hyphens or
apostrophes in the names fields. It is therefore not possible to include these or
any diacritical marks such as accents on a passport. Our specifications meet
those that have been agreed internationally through the International Civil
Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which sets standards for passports and other
identity documents used for international travel, whether by land, sea or air.
Whilst we are unable to accommodate number like ‘5’ or ‘37’, when these
numbers appear on the birth certificate only and were clearly part of the
name when it was registered, these can be spelt out on the passport (i.e. ‘five’
or ‘thirty seven’).
Diacritical characters and accent marks cannot be included on British
passports, but in most languages there are alternative spellings of names to
take this into account, known as transliterations. An acceptable list of
transliterations as agreed by the ICAO is shown below:
Character
Transliteration
Character
Transliteration
Á
A
Ń
N
À
A
Ñ
N or NXX
Â
A
Ň
N
Ä
AE
Ņ
N
Ã
A
Ŋ
N
Ă
A
Ø
OE
Å
AA
Ó
O
Ā
A
Ò
O
Ą
A
Ô
O
Ć
C
Ö
O
Ĉ
C
Õ
O
Č
C
Ő
O
Ċ
C
Ō
O
Ç
C
Ŏ
O
Ð
D
Ŕ
R
Ď
D
Ř
R
É
E
Ŗ
R
È
E
Ś
S
Ê
E
Ŝ
S
Ë
E
Š
S
Ě
E
Ş
S
Ė
E
Ŧ
T
Ē
E
Ť
T
Ę
E
Ţ
T
Ĕ
E
Ú
U
Ĝ
G
Ù
U
Ğ
G
Û
U
Ģ
G
Ü
UE or UXX
Ħ
H
Ũ
U
Ĥ
H
Ŭ
U
I
I
Ű
U
ĺ
I
Ů
U
Ì
I
Ū
U
Î
I
Ų
U
Ï
I
Ŵ
W
Ĩ
I
Ý
Y
İ
I
Ŷ
Y
Ī
I
Ÿ
Y
Į
I
Ź
Z
Ĭ
I
Ž
Z
Ĵ
J
Ż
Z
Ķ
K
Þ
TH
Ł
L
Æ
AE
Ĺ
L
IJ
IJ
Ľ
L
Œ
OE
Ļ
L
ß
SS
Ŀ
L
Where an applicant has a name including the diacritical characters listed
above, you will need to explain to them prior to issue that the alternative
spelling must be used, the system must be updated to show the transliteration
and a case note must be added to explain the change. Similarly, if an
applicant completes their application form with any diacritical characters in the
name transliterated as above, but their documents show the corresponding
diacritical character, this should be accepted without any supporting evidence.
Where an applicant’s name includes a diacritical character not listed here,
then evidence of the alternative spelling will be required. The applicant can
provide the evidence themselves (an official document showing the correct
transliteration or a letter from the relevant foreign authorities) or their case can
be referred to HQ Policy so that the relevant Embassy may be contacted on
their behalf, however there is no guarantee how long this may take and they
must be advised that if they choose this option it could considerably impact
the time their application takes to be resolved. The origin of the name
including any special characters will need to be ascertained as tactfully as
possible so that enquiries can be made where required to the correct
Embassy. If the applicant requests that we contact the Embassy on their
behalf, no compensation will be made for missed travel dates or service
levels.
Potentially Vulgar, Offensive or Blasphemous Names
A change of name that would potentially offend a large proportion of the
population and be considered against public policy and general moral
standards is unacceptable. These may be names that have religious
connotations that will outrage an identifiable section of the public, for example
referring to ‘Jesus Christ’ or ‘Allah’ or names that offend accepted principles of
morality, for example taboo swear words or sexually explicit words that may
be an affront to public decency. It should be noted, that the name “Jesus” on
its own is a genuine name used regularly in other cultures.
There are a large number of different religious beliefs held and practised in
the United Kingdom. Care should be taken when considering a name which
may have a religious significance and which may provoke outrage if parodying
a religion or its values.
It will not be enough for the examiner to find the name offensive, but the fact
that the examiner is offended will alert him or her to the need for caution and
to seek the views of the line manager.
Examiners will also need to remember that whilst they may not personally find
a name offensive, this may not be the case for others.
In order to make an assessment the examiner must be objective. IPS is not
the arbiter of good taste and it will not be sufficient to reject a change of name
on the basis of taste. Consideration must be given as to whether the name will
offend. Objectivity means being neither out of date nor a trend setter, and also
not being insensitive to public opinion.
Where the name may be distasteful but not offensive or potentially
blasphemous or unlawful, see Other Names.
Potentially Unlawful Names
Names that may be considered to promote criminal activities, such as racial
hatred should be rejected on the basis that it is against public policy to be
seen to promote such activities, for example names associated with extremist
organisations or figures could be construed as promoting racial or religious
hatred or names seen to promote criminal activity such as ‘cocaine’ or
‘marijuana’ which could be seen as promoting drug misuse.
Linked Applications with Unusual or Unacceptable Names
Where there are indications that a group of people (or friends) have changed
their names to the same name or to the names of a football/rugby/cricket
team for a humorous reason or a bet, this should be rejected except where
they can prove individually that they intend to use their new names for all
purposes. This also applies to families who may want to change their names
to cartoon characters – in this case, see also the policy on trade mark names
below.
Trade marks
A trade mark is the property of the registered owner that distinguishes their
goods and services from their competitors. The adoption of a trade mark
name will not, by itself, breach a registered trade mark. It will only do so if the
name is used for commercial gain. However, as it would be difficult to know
the motives of an applicant or what the name will be used for after the
passport has been issued, evidence to show that they have the consent of the
trademark owner should be requested. For example, if an applicant adopts
the registered trade mark ‘Tesco’ or ‘Coca Cola’, evidence should be
requested to show that they have the consent of these companies to use their
name in a private capacity.
In certain circumstances, the adoption of a registered trade mark name will be
acceptable without the consent of the trade mark owner. These are for
registered trade mark names which are also recognised as normal names.
For example, William Morrison or William Henry Smith or Paul Smith which
are all registered trade marks and normal names at the same time.
Commercial Gain
Where it is clear that the applicant has changed his or her name to an
unacceptable or unusual name for purely commercial gain, and they have
declared they have no intention of retaining that name, this should be refused
on the basis that the applicant has no intention of changing their name for all
purposes. For the most part, it would be expected that such cases will
become clear when asking for evidence as it is unlikely that the applicant
would be able to provide the additional documents required (see below).
Where an applicant changes his or her name for commercial gain and uses it
for all purposes, this may be acceptable provided the name does not also fall
into one of the other categories for refusal. For example, a solicitor who buys
a practice and changes his or her name to that of the practice to ensure they
continue to enjoy the reputation and customer base of the business will be
acceptable if they provide evidence the name has been changed for all
purposes. (See below).
Strings of words or Phrases
Where an applicant changes his or her name to a string of words or phrases
that would not normally be recognised as a name, this should not be entered
onto the personal details page of the passport. For example, the names ‘New
Year’ ‘Happy Easter’ or ‘Good Bye’ are unacceptable as, when put together,
they become a recognised phrase or saying. However, if the name does not
make up a phrase it may be accepted. For example: Happy Smith or John
Christmas.
Care needs to be taken when considering such names as we should not
reject those that would be recognised names, even if the combination is
considered unusual or in poor taste, or will make up a phrase or saying. For
example, ‘May Day’ ‘Orson Cart’ or ‘Neil Down’ are all legitimate names and
therefore must be accepted provided there is evidence that the name is used
for all purposes as detailed in ‘Other Names’ below.
Where the applicant has changed his or her name to a phrase or saying and
provides evidence that they are using that name, an observation may be
entered on the passport to say that ‘the holder is also known as ……….’. The
evidence required will be the same as that listed in the Table in ‘Other Names’
below.
Before accepting or rejecting a new name that is a string of words (phrase or
saying), the case should be referred to a line manager with a proposal to
accept or reject, detailing the reasons for the actions proposed. Any cases of
doubt should be referred to HQ Policy.
Presumed Titles
The policy on presumed titles is that we will accept the change of title deed as
evidence of a change of first name and include an observation that the title
refers to the first name and not the title. Any ‘honours’ included in the change
of name deed should not be included. In those cases where it appears the
applicant is trying to circumvent our policy by including honours as part of
their forenames, the application should be dealt with under the Presumed
Titles policy, and provided the applicant produces evidence to show that they
are using that name for all purposes, an observation should be entered on to
the passport to say that ‘the holder is also known as…….’.
Before accepting or rejecting a change of name that includes a presumed title,
the case should be referred to a line manager with a proposal to accept or
reject, detailing the reasons for the actions proposed. Any cases of doubt
should be referred to HQ Policy.
Other unusual names
Unusual names that are not rejected as detailed above should be considered
provided the applicant can produce additional evidence that they have
changed their name for all purposes.
It is important to establish that such applicants have not changed their name
on a whim, or just for a bet, but clearly use the name for all purposes. The
applicant will need to provide at least two supporting documents from List A
and at least one supporting document from list B in the new name. Please
note, it should be two separate items from list A – two utility bills would not
count as two separate choices.
List A
Financial Statement e.g.:
Pension, Endowment, Isa, Bank,
Bank or Building Society letter
naming applicant and showing current
address
P 45 or P60
Utility Bills (last three months)
Foreign Passport
Pay Slips or Employer’s letter
List B
National Insurance Number
NHS Card
Letter from DWP or other Govt Dept
Letter from Local Authority
Driving Licence
Benefits Book
confirming they are known in the
name stated
HM Forces ID Card
UK Firearms Licence
Vehicle Registration Document
In addition, the applicant must confirm in writing that they understand IPS
cannot take responsibility for any difficulties that they may encounter when
travelling abroad. This statement must be scanned.
Before accepting or rejecting any unusual name change, the case should be
referred to a line manager with a proposal to accept or reject, detailing the
reasons for the actions proposed. Any cases of doubt should be referred to
HQ Policy.
Multiple changes of name
Where an application has been submitted with several changes of name, the
applicant should provide sufficient official documentation to clearly
demonstrate a chain of evidence which shows a direct link between each
name change that has occurred since the name shown on the birth certificate
or the name shown on the last issued UK passport.
Examples of acceptable documentation would be:
•
•
Birth Certificate – Marriage Certificate or Deed Poll detailing each
change
Passport – Marriage Certificate or Deed Poll detailing each change
Example 1: Applicant known as Jones and wishes to revert back to birth
name of Smith, but before Jones applicant was known as Davies. In this
case the examiner needs to see documentary evidence to establish the links
between the birth name and all subsequent changes:
BC
→
Smith →
Deed Poll
→
MC
→
Davies
→
Jones →
CND
Jones to Smith
All of the above documents, or similar, will be required unless it states on the
marriage certificate that Davies was formerly known as Smith, in which case
we need to see birth certificate, marriage certificate and evidence of change
of name to the birth name.
Examiners also need to do manual checks on the system where there is a
complete change of name application or when there is more than one change
of surname to check no other passport has been issued in those details.
Example 2: Applicant known as Jones and wishes to revert back to maiden
name of Smith, but before Jones applicant was also known as Brown and
White in this case examiner need to see documentary evidence to establish
the links between the birth name and subsequent changes.
BC
→
MC
Smith →
to Smith
→
Deed Poll
→
MC
→
Brown → Brown to White → White to Jones →
CND
Jones
Example 3: Applicant known as Jones and wishes to revert back to maiden
name of Smith but before Jones applicant was also known as Brown and
then White. The passport was issued in the name of White. In this case the
examiner would need to see documentary evidence to establish the links
between the name on the passport and any subsequent changes. As any
former name change would have been investigated when passport issued.
Passport →
White
→
Deed Poll
→
Jones
→
CND
Jones to Smith
In all cases we would require documentary evidence to prove the link between
each name, system checks should be done on each name and the examiner
should be satisfied that the applicant is applying in the name that they use for
all purposes.
Stage and religious names
It is often more convenient for entertainers to travel in their stage name and
also those in religious orders who are known for all purposes by their title. A
stage or religious name may be included with the observation:
"The Holder is also known as"
For example: applicant’s birth name Joe Bloggs, applicant is also known by
the stage name of Signature, passport should be issued as follows:
Passport - in the name of Joe Bloggs
Observation – The Holder is also known as Signature
See Observations in Passports.
Where applicant has requested to have “the holder is son of” to be included
in their passport when travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hadj purposes, this
should be refused. The British authorities in Saudi Arabia have confirmed that
there are no requirements for this service.
Customary names
It is common practise in some Latin American countries that a woman retains
her maiden name upon marriage, adds ‘de’, and then takes the husband's
name. When examiners are dealing with such cases, the normal documentary
evidence such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate can be accepted.
Please also see Annex A for further details
It is also common practise within Asian marriages that the wife takes part of
the husband’s name as a forename, or the husband’s forename as a
surname. In all cases documentary evidence such as birth certificate or
marriage certificate can be accepted. Where there are discrepancies between
the spelling of the names on the document and on the application form,
examiners should request additional documentary evidence. Please see
Minor changes to Adult’s Forenames above.
The prefix/suffix Junior (Jr)
The General Register Office has confirmed that when an applicant wishes to
have ‘Junior’ on their birth certificate, this is normally shown after the
surname. If an applicant wishes to have ‘Junior ’ shown on their passport this
should be shown on the surname field provided this is shown on the birth
certificate.
Titles
There is a separate policy on Titles. If a change of name is linked to a title
then the Titles policy needs to be followed.
See also Observations in Passports and Titles for more information and on
children's and adult's names which are misleading, for example where names
on birth certificates are registered as Princess, Prince, Earl, Duke etc.
Children’s name changes
For Information on changing a child's name see Children's Changes of
Names.
Re-registration of birth where a name has changed
Where a birth is re-registered to add the natural father’s details or where the
natural parents marry after the birth (please see Birth Certificates for full
explanation), it is possible for the child’s surname to be changed at the same
time. The Registration Service will ensure that all necessary consents to the
change are obtained before issuing a new certificate. The new certificate can
be accepted by itself as documentary evidence of the change of name.
Please bear in mind also that space 17 of a birth certificate (column 10 in
older registrations) can be used to change a child’s forenames provided that
this is done within 12 months of the registration.
Incorrect details on birth certificate
Applicants occasionally claim that the names shown on their birth certificate,
or their child’s birth certificate, are incorrect. In these circumstances normal
evidence of change of name should be requested before issuing a passport in
the name claimed to be correct. Examiners should not suggest that the
applicant seeks correction of the birth certificate purely to support the
passport application. If the applicant asks about the possibility of correcting
the certificate, it should be explained that this is only possible if they can show
that a mistake was made at registration and can produce documentary
evidence that:
•
•
they were using a different name than that shown for them in their
child’s birth certificate at the time the child’s birth was registered, or
the child has been known by a different name than that shown in the
certificate from birth or shortly afterwards.
If the applicant decides to seek correction of the birth certificate and the
request is successful, the change will be made by means of a marginal note.
A passport can then be issued in the name shown in the note.
If the applicant decides not to seek correction of the birth certificate, normal
change of name evidence will be needed to issue a passport in a different
name. In the case of children, where the difference affects only the forenames
the passport may be issued in the forenames shown on a baptism or naming
certificate, but where the difference affects the surname a change of name
deed or statutory declaration will be needed, together with evidence that all
those with parental responsibility consent to the change. (See Children's
Change of Name page for details.)
Religious/cultural names
See Annex A for further information.
Divorce Documents for change of name or reversion to
maiden/previous name
Divorce documents are not acceptable on their own as evidence of a change
of name. This is because from 1971 divorce documents issued in England
and Wales no longer show the link between the former name and the present
name.
If a divorce document is submitted that shows both the former and the present
name, it may be accepted as evidence of the change of name provided it
shows the link between the name on the source document and the current
name.
A passport accompanied by a divorce document will only be acceptable if it
shows the link between the passport and the name on the divorce document
and the name on the application form. The link between all names must be
clear. If the link is not obvious from the divorce document then, on a case by
case basis, line managers may determine that the system can be consulted. If
there is a clear link on the system between the two names, then accept. If the
link is not clear or the line manager deems that (after examining the case as a
whole) full documentation should be provided, then a copy of the marriage
certificate should be requested.
In either case, a signed statement confirming the reversion for all purposes
should also be provided.
If an applicant of either sex is reverting to a name that was not their
birth/maiden name, then documentary evidence of a change of name should
be sought in place of a decree absolute. Please note that a statement will not
be acceptable on its own.
Different signatures
Where an application has been signed in a different name to that in which the
passport is to be issued, the point must be resolved. If it’s a counter
application, examiners must explain to the applicant that although they can
sign in any way they wish they may encounter problems at border control. If
it’s a postal application, the examiner must send letter 291 with a copy of the
signature to confirm that the signature is the one the applicant uses for all
purposes.
One name
Where an applicant has just one name either on their birth certificate or by
change of name deed, this should be shown in the surname field with three
X’s shown in the forename field.
Welsh names
Where an applicant wishes to have the ‘ap surname’ (son of) shown as part
of their surname on their passport, this should be shown in the surname field
providing this is shown on the birth certificate. This is not a common practise
and it could be used either in English or Welsh names. Please also see Welsh
Language.
Irish names
Irish and Gaelic forenames will often be different when translated into English.
We should continue to issue as the birth certificate unless documentary
evidence of the change of name has been provided. Alternatively we can
issue as the birth certificate with an observation when we know the reason for
the difference is because an applicant wishes to have their passport in the
translated version of their birth name. For example Irish BC shows Sean
Donnelly and the applicant wishes to have the passport in the name John
Donnelly which is the English translation. The applicant should be advised
either by telephone or by letter that we will issue the passport in the name
shown on the birth certificate with an observation to show the holder is also
known as <name on the application form> unless the applicant has provided
formal documentary evidence of the change, such as a statutory declaration
to prove that John Donnelly is the name used for all purposes.
Annex A
Religious/cultural names
Hindu names
1.1 The name-system of most Hindus in Britain is similar to the English name
system in that one or more personal names are followed by the Family name.
Upon marriage a Hindu woman usually takes the husband's family name. It is
important to note that some Hindus have dropped the family name to indicate
rejection of the caste system. In these cases the middle name becomes the
last name and it is likely that husband and wife will therefore have different
'surnames'.
Examples of Hindu names are:
PERSONAL
FEMALE
Jyoti
Mira
Pushpa
MALE
Anand
Devendra
Krishna
MIDDLE
FAMILY
NAME
Devi
Gowri
Lakshmi
Chopra
Desai
Dholakia
Chand
Das
Kumar
Patel
Shah
Sharma
Hindu titles
1.2 'Shri' or 'Shirimati', used before a name, signify 'Mr' or 'Mrs'. They are not
names themselves, e.g.:
Shri Surendra Patel
Shrimati Rupa Patel
1.3 'Devi', 'Wati' and 'Kumari' are old modes of address which are less
commonly used today but may still occur. They are used with female names
in the same way as the Sikh title 'Kaur', after the personal name and in place
of the Family name. 'Devi' literally means 'Goddess'; 'Kumari' and 'Wati' mean
'Princess'.
Sikh names
2.1 Sikhs are easily recognisable by the title 'Singh' (for males) and 'Kaur' (for
females, both married and single) attached to the name.
2.2 All Sikhs have a personal name, followed by Singh or Kaur, which is
followed by the family name.
2.3 Sometimes, however, the family name is dropped so that the individual is
just called by their personal name plus Singh or Kaur.
2.4 On marriage, a woman takes her husband's family name only if he uses it.
Otherwise she calls herself 'Mrs Kaur'.
Examples of Sikh names are:
PERSONAL
Ajit
Amarjit
Baldev
Davinder
Gurdip
Jaswinder
Jaramijit
Karamijit
Kuldip
RELIGIOUS FAMILY
Bassi
Singh
Birdi
(male)
Gill
Grewal
Kaur
Khalsi
(female)
Pannesar
Riat
Applies to
Sandhu
all
Sohal
2.5 The names of Sikhs and Hindus are not separate and distinct, and some
of the Hindu personal names may be borne by Sikhs as well.
Muslim names
3.1 Muslim naming systems vary greatly according to the area of origin. All
Muslims have a personal name, but beyond that there is much variability.
3.2 Males normally have a personal name and a religious name (in either
order) and sometimes a hereditary name.
3.3 Females tend to have a personal name followed by either a female titular
name or second name.
3.4 A Muslim should never be addressed by his religious name alone.
PERSONAL RELIGIOUS FAMILY
Akbar
Amin
Aziz
Bashir
Hasan
Hussain
Mustafa
Rahman
Youssef
Mohammed
Ahhah
Ullah
Ali
Hussein
Ahmed
Abdul
Syed
Bhatti
Choudhury
Khan
Shah
3.5 It is quite usual for members of the same family to have completely
different names, sharing no common family name. Family kinships, therefore,
are not easily identified. Some families do have a 'surname' (though it may not
be the last name) or all the male members of a family may, for example, be
called 'Mohammed'. Likewise, a wife may take her husband's family name on
marriage, or she may not - it all depends on the family concerned.
Names of Middle Eastern origin
4.1 Males - The names go back three generations, e.g.:
'ALI bin MOHAMED bin YAKUB'
4.2 Females - The names should be followed by those of the father or
husband back to three generations, e.g.:
'FADUM binti ALI bin MOHAMED bin YAKUB'
or
'MINRIAN w/o ADAN bin ALI bin IBRAHIM'
African names
5.1 The names given to African people have great significance and meaning,
often based on ancestry or an event at birth. For example, most Yoruba
names have prefixes such as 'Ade' meaning 'crown' and associated with
royalty; 'Oye' suggesting a chieftain household. Prefixes such as 'Ayo' or
'Oluwa' suggest that a significant event took place at the child's birth.
5.2 Here are some examples of Ghanaian names; every Ghanaian has a
traditional name which identifies tribe and often clan. Most commonly used
are the day names:
NAMES
Girls
Sunday
Akousa
Monday
Adjoa
Boys
Kwesi or
Akwesi
Kojo or
Kwadjo
Tuesday
Abena
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Akua
Yaa
Afua or Afia
Saturday
Ama
Kobina or
Kwabena
Kweku
Yaw
Kofi
Kwame
or
Kwamena
5.3 Parents may choose not to pass on their surnames to their children,
preferring to name them after some family heroes or events relating to their
birth.
Latin American names
6.1 It is a known practice/customary law in the majority of Latin American
countries, that upon marriage a woman retains her maiden name, adds ”de”
and then takes her husband's surname or part of her husband's surname.
e.g. Maria Louisa Lopez marries Juan Hernandez-Dias
upon marriage, she becomes Maria Louisa Lopez de Hernandez.
This would be acceptable without a change of name deed, as it would be
clear from the marriage certificate where the rest of the name had come from.
The applicant would need to provide a statement in support of passport
application explaining that she was assuming the new name as per this
customary practice and examiners would need to confirm this by contacting
the FCO or the relevant embassy in London. These actions and decisions
must be case noted.