Changing a child's forename

You can change your child's forename(s) if the new name(s) are used within 12 months of your child's registration. Parents are able to add, replace, change or re-order a child’s forenames. You are unable to change the child’s surname using this process.

You can change a child’s forename in the following circumstances:

  • By Baptism - if your child has been baptised within 12 months of the registration and they have received a new name, this name can be added to the birth register.
  • Regular use - if you have used a new or additional forename within 12 months of the registration, then this name or names may be added to the birth register.

If your child has been baptised you need to complete a certificate of naming. The form must be signed by a priest or minister at the church where the baptism took place. You must also provide a certificate of baptism.

If you have given your child a new forename by regular use within 12 months of registration you need to complete a certificate of naming for a name given not in Baptism.

The completed application form can be posted or taken to the register office which issued your child's birth certificate. Once the change has been made, you can order a new birth certificate from the register office.  

How will the name appear?

The amended forename(s) will be entered in the birth register. The names which were given at the registration will still appear on the certificate, but the any new names will be entered at the bottom of the certificate in Space 17. These replace the original names for all official purposes.