A Step-by-Step Legal Guide
According to Maltese law, the changing of an individual’s name constitutes a judicial process whereby a person may seek to have his or her official records duly reflect personal identity, values, or life circumstances. This modification is recognised as a legal act of significance, often reflecting material, personal, social, or professional changes. This procedure is regulated by specific statutory provisions as well as by administrative formalities that are established under the laws of Malta.
I. Legal Framework and Applicable Maltese Laws
The process of name change in Malta is primarily regulated by the Civil Code, Chapter 16 of the Laws of Malta, whereby a request is submitted to the Court of Revision of Notarial Acts. Additionally, the Identity Card and Other Identity Documents Act, Chapter 258 of the Laws of Malta dictates how identification documents like Identity Cards and passports are updated following a change in the name. Furthermore, for cases related to Maltese citizenship acquisition or registration, the Maltese Citizenship Act, Chapter 188 of the Laws of Malta, also becomes pertinent.
II. Eligibility Criteria
The right to apply for a name change extends to Maltese citizens by: birth, registration, or naturalisation, as well as foreign nationals legally residing in Malta who have locally registered or transcribed birth records. Minors can apply through a parent or legal guardian. Furthermore, individuals whose civil status acts are recorded in Malta are also eligible.
III. Procedural Steps: How to Change Your Name in Malta
Filing the Application
- Submit a formal request to the Court of Revision of Notarial Acts, detailing the legal grounds for the name change.
- Serve the request to the Director of the Public Registry.
- Include supporting documents that substantiate the application.
Judicial Determination
- The Court reviews the application, considers representations, and issues a judicial decree if satisfied.
- The Court’s decision is published in the Government Gazette within ten (10) days.
- Any appeals must be filed within six (6) days of publication.
Registration and Annotation
- If no appeals are filed (or once they are dismissed), the Director of the Public Registry updates the relevant civil records.
IV. Post-Decision Effects and Practical Implications
Following the issuance of the Court decree:
- Update official documents such as ID card, passport, and driving license to reflect the new name.
- Notify relevant authorities such educational institutions, JobsPlus, banks and others.
- Existing legal relationships, such as marital status or parental authority, remain unaffected unless directly linked to the name change.
Initiating a name change process in Malta can be complex and often requires legal guidance and representation throughout the entirety of the process. Should you requite assistance, one may contact us for support on [email protected].
Cet article est à titre informatif seulement et ne doit pas être interprété comme un avis juridique.
Article written by Dr Roseanne Sant Cortis, B.A. LL.D. M.A. (Dip.St), Associate Lawyer at Sciberras Advocates.
Sciberras Advocates, fondé par Dr Adrian Sciberras, est un cabinet d'avocats basé à Malte. Le cabinet s'enorgueillit d'être multidisciplinaire, innovant et flexible afin de répondre aux évolutions et aux défis du paysage juridique local et international. Quelle que soit la complexité des demandes privées ou d'entreprise, Sciberras Advocates propose des solutions juridiques pratiques et rentables pour atteindre les résultats souhaités. Vous pouvez contacter Sciberras Advocates par téléphone au +35627795222ou par courriel sur [email protected].
