A legal document known as a deed poll is used to formally alter your name. It’s an official announcement that you’re taking on a new name and giving up your old one. In Singapore, a lawyer must draft this document, and you will sign it in their presence. It’s a simple procedure that makes it simple to accept a new identity or fix a spelling error that has been nagging you.

Who Should Be Aware of Your Name Change?

It is imperative that you notify significant individuals and organizations about your formal name change. This is your to-do list:

The HR department should update your work records. 

• The school/university should ensure that your academic records reflect your new name.
• Banks and insurers should update your financial accounts. 
• Mobile phone companies should ensure that your account information is up to date. 
• IRAs and other authorities should notify any organization that sends you regular bills.

Keeping everyone informed helps to avoid misunderstanding later on and guarantees that all of your records are current.

Which Documents Require Changes?

You have seven days from the time you get your new NRIC to obtain a new passport. To apply, go to the ICA or Singapore Embassy with your documentation. In four to six weeks, your new passport should arrive. Notify the previously listed organizations to update all of your records, in addition to your NRIC and passport.

Documents That Are Not Modifiable

There are certain papers that never change. Your marriage and birth certificates, in particular, are unchangeable and permanent. They will always use your given name.

Is the Deed Poll Something You Have to Bring with You?

Once your passport and NRIC have been updated, you won’t need to carry the deed poll about. You may proceed without it after these important papers have been updated with your new name.

Least Age to Obtain a Deed Poll

Even if they are divorced, both parents must sign your deed poll if you are under 21 (unless one has primary custody). Please bring a death certificate to the ICA if one of your parents has died away. The current parent must certify that all reasonable attempts were made to get in touch with the other parent in the event that one parent is unreachable.

Limits on Name Changes

There’s good news! You can change your name as often as you want. You may thus repeat the procedure if you later have a change of heart.

Limits on Novel Names

There are limitations even though you have a lot of leeway in selecting your new name. ICA will not allow names that are filthy, derogatory, or have political resemblance. Moreover, titles like “Duke” or “Sir” are forbidden. Other than that, let your imagination go wild!

Can Foreigners in Singapore Change Their Name?

Yes, however it will rely on the laws of your own nation. Find out if your Singaporean embassy or consulate accepts name changes obtained via a Singapore deed poll. Verifying that everything complies with the laws of your native nation is usually a smart idea.

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