In Singapore, legally changing your name is more than just letting your friends know—you’ll need to go through an official process, and that’s where the Deed Poll comes in. A Deed Poll is a legal document that makes your name change official, and it’s necessary for updating all your important documents like your NRIC, passport, and bank accounts.
The good news is, the Deed Poll process is quite straightforward, especially if you have the assistance of a Deed Poll lawyer. But what exactly does this process involve, and how can you make sure it goes smoothly? Let’s walk through the steps.
Step 1: Finding a Deed Poll Lawyer
The first step in changing your name is contacting a Deed Poll lawyer. Any qualified lawyer in Singapore can help you draft the document, but it’s important to find someone experienced who can guide you through the process and make sure everything is done correctly.
During your consultation, the lawyer will ask for some key details—your current name, the new name you’d like to adopt, and identification documents like your NRIC or passport. With this information, they’ll draft the Deed Poll.
Step 2: Signing the Deed Poll
Once your Deed Poll is ready, the next step is to sign it in the presence of your lawyer. This makes it legally binding. After signing, you’ll receive the document, which officially declares your new name.
Step 3: Submitting to the ICA
After the Deed Poll is signed, it needs to be submitted to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). You can either send a hard copy by mail or submit it online. Once the ICA processes your document, your name change will be registered, and you can start using your new name on all legal and official platforms.
Step 4: Updating Important Organizations
Once the ICA approves your legal name change, it’s important to update all relevant organizations. This includes banks, insurance providers, your workplace, schools, and any other institutions where your name is registered.
Step 5: Getting a New Passport
After your NRIC has been updated, remember to apply for a new passport. The ICA provides detailed instructions on how to do this. You’ll have a window of seven days to apply for a new passport after receiving your new NRIC.
The entire Deed Poll process can take just a few days, especially with the right lawyer guiding you. While the steps are simple, it’s important to follow them carefully to avoid any delays.
Conclusion
Changing your name in Singapore through a Deed Poll is a straightforward legal process, but it does require careful attention to detail. From drafting the document with a Deed Poll lawyer to submitting it to the ICA, every step is essential to making your new name official. By following the proper procedures, you can ensure your name change goes smoothly and without any unnecessary complications.
