Can I change my name abroad: what Ukrainian citizens need to know

Are you a Ukrainian citizen living abroad and want to change your name? Find out who has the right to change their name, what documents are required, and what conditions need to be met in our article

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Changing your name is an important step in the life of every person. Many Ukrainians living abroad consider changing their name or surname. However, this process has certain legal nuances that you should know before starting the procedure.

💡Do you want to change your name but don't know where to start?

Contact a qualified migration lawyer! Specialists will help you understand all the legal intricacies and accompany you at every stage of the name change. Get a consultation now!

What is a name?

The name of a citizen of Ukraine consists of three components: surname, first name and patronymic. All these components can be changed in accordance with the current legislation.

Who can change the name?

Ukrainian citizens have the right to change their name, but there are certain age restrictions:

- Persons who have reached the age of 16 may change their surname, name or patronymic at their own discretion.

- Children between the ages of 14 and 16 can change their name with the consent of their parents or the parent with whom they live, or with the permission of a guardian.

Important conditions for changing your name abroad

Only those citizens of Ukraine who have officially formalized their departure for permanent residence abroad can change their name through consular offices. Without this, the consul has no right to register the name change.

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What is departure for permanent residence abroad?

Departure for permanent residence outside of Ukraine is a legal procedure that requires registration of the appropriate status. To do this, you need to:

In Ukraine - apply to the territorial office of the State Migration Service of Ukraine.

Abroad - apply to the embassy or consulate in the country of residence. Information on the procedure can be found in the section “Permanent residence abroad” on the website of the relevant diplomatic mission. The list of all diplomatic missions is available at https://cutt.ly/IrypHlpW.

Upon completion of the procedure, the passport of a citizen of Ukraine for traveling abroad must be stamped with the stamp “Permanent residence _______ (country)”. It is also possible to affix a stamp of acceptance for permanent consular registration.

How to apply for a change of name abroad?

The name change service is available by appointment through online registration at https://id.e-consul.gov.ua/.

Many citizens face difficulties in the process of paperwork. In order to avoid unnecessary problems and delays, it is recommended to contact an experienced lawyer who will help you prepare all the necessary papers and submit an application without errors.

What documents are required?

The following documents must be attached to the application for a change of name:

- Birth certificate;

- Marriage certificate (if the applicant is married);

- Divorce certificate or court decision (if the marriage is dissolved);

- Birth certificates of children (if the applicant has minor children);

- Certificates of change of name (of the applicant, father or mother, if it was previously changed);

- Photo;

- Receipt of payment of the consular fee.

It is possible to change the name abroad, but only for those Ukrainian citizens who have officially formalized their departure for permanent residence abroad. The procedure requires collecting a certain package of documents and applying to a consular office.

Why should you contact Visit Ukraine's migration lawyers?

- Save your time and avoid bureaucratic mistakes.

- Legal support at all stages of name change.

- Protection of your rights and interests in consular offices.

🔹Don't waste your time on complications - entrust legal issues to professionals! Contact us for a consultation!

We remind you! Obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine is a complex process that requires legal knowledge. Read our previous article to find out what are the benefits and risks of doing it yourself and when you should contact a migration lawyer.

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