Changing a child’s passport name after a deed poll

A child deed poll records the name change. HM Passport Office then considers the child’s passport application, supporting evidence and consent. After completing the deed poll, apply for the child’s replacement passport using the current application route and document checklist.

Before ordering a deed poll, confirm that everyone who needs to consent can take part. This is especially important if parents are separated, a court order is in force, or there are safeguarding concerns.

For a child passport, HMPO may need both evidence that the name changed and evidence that the child uses the new name for official purposes. A court order that only mentions a new name may not by itself prove the change and current use. Follow the application checklist and HMPO’s evidence guidance. HM Passport Office: evidence to change a name; HM Passport Office: change-of-name passport applications

If the other parent has parental responsibility and does not consent, do not assume that one parent’s signature is enough. HM Passport Office says it can accept a court order allowing the change. GOV.UK’s child deed poll guidance describes applying to the family court for a specific issue order. HM Passport Office: passport consent and child name changes; GOV.UK: changing a child’s name

If requesting consent could put someone at risk, HM Passport Office has a safeguarding process. Contact the Passport Office through the official route and seek appropriate family-law advice. Use those dedicated channels to discuss sensitive safeguarding details. HM Passport Office: safeguarding and consent issues