Changing Your Name by Deed Poll
To change your name in Singapore, you need a deed poll, as the authorities, including ICA, generally won’t recognise a name change without one. The process is simple once you know the sequence
To change your name in Singapore, you need a deed poll, as the authorities, including ICA, generally won’t recognise a name change without one. The process is simple once you know the sequence.
Key points
A deed poll is a legal declaration. It states that you give up your current name and take a new one. It is usually drafted by a lawyer.
It changes your name only. You cannot use it to change other particulars such as race, religion or date of birth. It also can’t alter the name on your birth or marriage certificates.
The clock starts once you sign. You must apply to ICA within 28 days of obtaining the deed poll to update your NRIC with the new name and an updated photo.
Minors need their parents. Those under 21 can change their names with the consent of their parents or guardians.
Foreign records may not follow automatically. A Singapore deed poll does not guarantee your home country will recognise the change, so check with your embassy or consulate.
What to do next
- Decide on your new name and check the spelling and format carefully, because it will appear on all your records.
- Engage a lawyer to prepare and execute the deed poll.
- Update your NRIC within 28 days. Submit a “Change IC Particulars (Self)” application on ICA’s online portal, then collect your new NRIC in person with the original deed poll.
- Update your other records, including your passport, bank accounts, CPF, employer, insurers and school or university.
- Keep several certified copies of the deed poll for future use.
