HOW TO CHANGE YOUR NAME AFTER MARRIAGE OR DIVORCE?

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Changing your name after marriage or divorce in Trinidad and Tobago involves specific legal procedures outlined by our country's laws and regulations. Whether you're assuming a new surname after marriage or reverting to your former name following a divorce, it's essential to understand the process to ensure a seamless transition. Here's a guide providing some information on how to legally changing your name after marriage or divorce in Trinidad and Tobago:

Changing Your Name After Marriage:
Upon marriage, you may choose to adopt your spouse's surname. Follow these steps:

1. Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate:
   After your marriage, secure a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the Registrar General's Department at the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs (AGLA). This document serves as proof of your marital status and is essential for updating your name on official records.
   
   
2. Update Official Documents:
   Driver's Permit: Visit the Ministry of Works and Transport with your marriage certificate to update your driver's permit. You'll need to complete Form No. 4 and a Notification of Change form, and present the original and a copy of your computerized marriage certificate. A fee of $35.00 applies for the notification of a change of name.
   
   National Identification Card: Present your marriage certificate to the Elections and Boundaries Commission to update your ID card.
   
   Passport: Submit your marriage certificate to the Ministry of National Security, Immigration Division to have your passport reflect your new surname.

Changing Your Name After Divorce:
If you wish to revert to your maiden name or a previous surname following a divorce, the process is as follows:

1. Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Decree Absolute:
   Ensure you have the official decree absolute certificate, which legally dissolves your marriage.
   
   
2. Update Official Documents:
   Driver's Permit: To change your name on your driver's permit, present the completed Form No. 4, a Notification of Change form, and your decree absolute certificate to the Ministry of Works and Transport. A fee of $35.00 is applicable for the notification of a change of name.
   
   National Identification Card: Provide your decree absolute certificate to the Elections and Boundaries Commission to update your ID card.
   
   Passport: Submit a statutory declaration to the Ministry of National Security, Immigration Division to have your passport reflect your previous surname.

Additional Considerations
If you wish to change your name to something other than your maiden name or previous surname (or if the institution at which you would like to acquire an updated identification document instructs you to do a Deed Poll), you will need to execute a Deed Poll. This legal document must be:

• Prepared by an Attorney-at-Law.
• Signed in the presence of two witnesses.
• Registered with the Registrar General's Department.

Once registered, the Deed Poll can be used to update your identification documents. You would be required to present a certified copy of the Deed Poll to the institution to effect the name change on your identification document.

By following these steps, individuals can successfully change their name after marriage or divorce in Trinidad and Tobago in accordance with our country's legal framework. It's advisable to seek guidance from a legal professional to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and a smooth transition to the new name.

Important Notice: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always seek consultation with an attorney for your specific legal concerns, as only a professional familiar with the details of your situation can provide proper guidance. 
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​This website is managed by AURORA Chambers; a law practice in Trinidad and Tobago.

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