The birth of a child is a wonderful experience, but it can also be an overwhelming time for new parents. Registering a child’s birth will give them access to health care and enable the parents to register the child with a GP and educational settings.
But what happens if you want to change a baby’s name after registering their birth in the UK? Here we look at the importance of registering a baby’s name and how to change it after registration.
The Importance of Registering a Newborn’s name
Registering a child will ensure they receive a birth certificate – this is an essential document throughout life. Without a birth certificate, you may not be able to register your child with a GP or educational setting. Your child will also need a birth certificate to obtain a passport and a driving licence.
By registering your child’s name, you ensure they are a legal UK citizen. All newborns in the UK must be registered within 42 days of birth. Many hospitals will offer help with the process, but it is an easy task. Registration will take place at a registry office local to the parents.
What Information is Needed When Registering a Birth?
- Place of birth
- Date of birth
- Full name of the baby
- Sex of the child
- Parent’s full names as well as the mother’s maiden name
- Parent’s address
- Date and location of parent’s birth
- If applicable, the date of the parent’s marriage/civil partnership
- Parent’s occupation
- Each parent must also provide at least one piece of identification
Not Decided on a Baby Name within the 42 Days?
If you have not decided on the right name for your child within the 42 day timeframe, you will still need to register the birth, but the name section will stay blank. You then have 12 months to update it with a name. Failure to do this may bring a fine, and your child may not be able to access healthcare.
Changing your Baby’s Name
A child’s birth name can be changed using a deed poll. If the child is less than a year old, their first name can be changed, but the child must be re-registered for the surname to be changed. All named parents will need to consent, and the original birth certificate will remain but be linked to the deed poll as proof of change.
If you make a name change due to an error in the initial registration, there is an application to update it. Still, the initial information will remain on the register. Evidence of the correction will be logged to show the change – this will be in the form of margin notes on file and the birth certificate.
For professional Deed Poll advice, contact DeedPoll.com on 020 8017 2216.
