📝 Can I change my name or surname in Malta like a deed poll?

With conditions

Quick answer

Yes you can, but not by simply "starting to use" a new name or filling in a form — in Malta changing your name is a judicial process. The procedure is regulated mainly by the Civil Code (Cap. 16), together with the Identity Card Act (Cap. 258) and, where citizenship is involved, Cap. 188. You must file a formal application before the Court of Revision of Notarial Acts, serve the Director of the Public Registry, and give your reasons. If satisfied, the Court issues a decree, and the decision is published in the Government Gazette within 10 days; any appeal must be filed within 6 days. The myth: that you can change a name by "deed poll" or a simple declaration as in some other countries. In Malta you cannot — even a foreign change is recognised only with proof that it was made according to the law of that country. Once the decree is issued, the Registry updates the records and only then can you change your identity card, passport and licence.

📋 The rules

Changing your name is a judicial process, regulated mainly by the Civil Code (Cap. 16), not a simple administrative form.
You must file an application before the Court of Revision of Notarial Acts and serve the Director of the Public Registry.
The Court issues a decree if satisfied, and the decision is published in the Government Gazette within 10 days.
Any appeal must be filed within 6 days of publication; afterwards the Registry updates the civil records.
A name change made outside Malta is recognised only with proof that it was made according to the law of that country.

🔓 Exceptions

Minors can apply through a parent or legal guardian, with the Court considering their best interests.
Since 2021, married couples may keep a separate surname, adopt the partner's, or combine up to four surnames.
A reform announced in 2026 is introducing an Identità digital portal so that certain routine changes can be made online, without a notary visit.

⚠️ Penalties & fines

Changing your name is not "simple bureaucracy" you can skip: if you use a name that has not been officially changed, your official documents stay in the old name, and that creates inconsistencies with the bank, JobsPlus, schools and the authorities. Until the Court decree is issued, you cannot update your identity card, passport or driving licence, and every contract or deed stays tied to the registered name. The process itself can take time and the costs of court and lawyer, and announced reforms mention notary fees of between €50 and €150 for certain routine changes. On top of that, existing legal relationships — such as marital status or parental authority — remain unchanged except where they are directly linked to the name. The practical advice: get legal advice, prepare the reasons and documents well, and start using the new name only when the decree is issued and the Registry is updated.

📎 Official sources

Last verified: 2026-07-12

❓ Frequently asked

Can I change my name by deed poll in Malta?

No, in Malta changing your name is a judicial process and not a simple declaration like a deed poll. You must file an application before the Court of Revision of Notarial Acts, and a foreign change is recognised only with proof that it was made according to the law of that country.

How long does the name-change process take?

After you file the application, the Court examines it and, if satisfied, issues a decree that is published in the Government Gazette within 10 days, with appeals possible within 6 days. The total period depends on the case, and it is best to arrange legal advice to avoid unnecessary delay.

Can I update my passport before the decree is issued?

No — the identity card, passport and licence can be updated only after the decree is issued and the Public Registry is updated. Until then, your official name stays the registered one, and using another name creates inconsistencies in your documents.

Can I change my surname after marriage?

Yes, since 2021 couples may keep separate surnames, adopt the partner's, or combine up to four surnames. Some marriage-related changes follow Public Registry procedures, while a wider change of name still needs the judicial process.

Can minors change their name?

Yes, but the application is made through a parent or legal guardian, and the Court considers the minor's best interests. As with adults, the change becomes official only when the decree is issued and the Registry is updated.

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