New updates and conditions for changing the name in civil status

New updates and conditions for changing the name in civil status

The name change service in civil status is one of the services provided by the Civil Status Agency to correct or modify citizens’ personal data, in accordance with certain controls. In this article, we will explain how to change a name, procedures, and conditions for changing a name for men, women, and children, and answer some questions such as: How to change a name via the Absher platform? What papers are required? How long does it take?

What is meant by changing the name in circumstances

Changing the name in civil status means amending the personal or family name or deleting or modifying part of the name (fame name, thigh, tribe) registered with the civil status, so that the person has a new official name, and the old name is replaced in the civil registry and national identity; This procedure is not granted to any person, but is subject to the approval of the competent civil status committee It requires meeting clear conditions and some criminal procedures to ensure that the change is not for the purpose of evasion or forgery.

How to change the name in cases

Civil Status has established a set of controls and procedures that ensure that the change process proceeds in a systematic and accurate manner, while preserving individual rights and the integrity of official data. Below we review the steps for changing the name in civil status in Saudi Arabia using the paper or electronic method in detail:

1. Paper method (civil status office review)

First, visit the district’s civil status office and request a name change form from the employee. After that, the form is filled out with all the required data, such as the current name, the new name and the reason for the change, attaching supporting documents such as national ID or any other documents. After submitting the form and documents, the office reviews the application, and if all data is correct, the new name is approved and official records are updated.

2. Electronic method (via Absher platform)

It is done through the Absher Individuals platform. After entering the website or application, you must log in using your username and password, then go to the Civil Status Department and choose the name change service. After that, the user fills in the required data, including the old name, the new name, and the reason for the change, and uploads the required documents. After reviewing and submitting the application, the user is notified of approval via Absher, and the new name becomes official and is updated in all records.

Procedures for changing surname in civil status

If a person wishes to change “surname” or “family name”, this matter is subject to additional controls, such as often requiring the consent of all family members or parents when changing the surname, in cases of deleting the tribe name, it is required that the name after deletion does not produce less than a quadrilateral, and that the change is not for the purpose of evasion or forgery.

Conditions for changing the name in civil status

It is important to know that the process has controls to protect a person’s rights and maintain official records. Conditions vary by age and gender, and there are general and specific conditions.

General Conditions: The new name must be permitted in Saudi Arabia and must not contain titles such as “Hajj, Sayyid, Emir” or words that violate Sharia or are inappropriate. The change must be one-time except in exceptional cases. It must not be for the purpose of escaping legal obligations or issues. The advertisement must be published in newspapers and the specified period must be waited.

Men’s requirements: Must be 18 years of age or older to apply himself. He may be asked to conduct security or military investigations, depending on the case.

Conditions for women: An adult woman (18 years or older) can change her name without the guardian’s consent. In most cases, if the name is related to the family, she may need the consent of family members.

Conditions for children: They are under 18 years of age, parental or legal guardian approval is required, a new name must be permitted, and changing lineage requires judicial procedures or official approval.

Reasons for changing the name in civil status

Changing a name in civil status is not just an administrative procedure, but has motives (legal, social, psychological). Here are the main reasons why people want to change their names:

1. Correcting spelling or writing errors: Many citizens find that their names registered in the national ID or civil status records contain spelling errors. These cause legal problems or difficulties in formal transactions such as obtaining a passport, education certificates, or dealing with banks. Changing the name in this case aims to unify the official data and make it legally correct.
2. Replacing inappropriate names: Some names may be outdated, carry undesirable connotations, or contain words that are inconsistent with local culture or Islamic law. In this case, the person resorts to changing the name to get a socially acceptable name.
3. Deleting old tribal names or surnames: Some people want to delete part of the name associated with the tribe, especially if it is associated with customs that are no longer appropriate. This type of change often requires formal approval from the relevant committee, to ensure that the new name remains legal and appropriate.
4. Psychological or personal reasons: Some individuals may feel uncomfortable with their current name for personal or psychological reasons, such as a name that is sarcastic or reduces self-confidence. Changing the name in these cases can help a person start a new page or improve their sense of self-identity.

Documents and documents required to change the name in civil status in Saudi Arabia

To ensure a smooth and rapid process, a set of documents and papers proving the applicant’s identity, family relationships, and legal status, as well as an explanation of the motivation behind the change, are required. These papers provide the required legal basis before the competent authorities and help facilitate name change procedures.

Required documents:

1. A copy of the applicant’s national ID card: It must be valid and clear.
2. Conscription certificate (for those mentioned only): A conscription certificate or proof of military service status is required.
3. Marriage document (for married couples): The official marriage contract must be submitted if the applicant is married.
4. A copy of the applicant’s father’s ID card: to confirm kinship and family information.
5. A copy of the applicant’s family card: to confirm family data and legal relationship.
6. Parental authorization to approve the change: Submitted if the applicant is under 18 years of age.
7. Submit a name change form: Fill out the official form (usually Form 203), with the required data.
8. A report including the old and new name and the motive behind the change: explains the reason for the change and justifies the request before the Civil Status Committee.

Applicants can hire experienced lawyers to help them extract and prepare the required papers quickly, and complete the procedures correctly and smoothly.

Duration of processing a name change request in civil status

It is important to know that the processing time for a name change request is not fixed, as it varies depending on the method of submission, the type of change, and the complexity of the case. Through these procedures, Civil Status aims to carefully study the application, verify the accuracy of the data, and ensure that the change is legal and appropriate. Below is an explanation of the duration depending on the application method:

Paper method (civil status office review): Mostly between 15 to 30 working days, simple changes in the personal name are made quickly, but changing the surname or deleting tribal names may take time; If it is necessary to publish an advertisement or conduct security investigations, the period may extend further.

Electronic method via the Absher platform: Between 10 and 20 working days, simple requests are processed quickly, while complex changes require additional approvals; The platform allows the request to be followed up and documents completed easily, reducing delays.

Factors that may prolong the period:

• Incomplete or unclear documents.
• Request parental consent for children under 18 years of age.
• The period for publishing the new name in newspapers to receive objections.

To expedite the process, you must ensure that the documents are complete, explain the reason for the change, and follow up on the request periodically through Absher or the relevant office.

Important tips before deciding to change the name

You should choose the new name carefully, making sure it is socially and culturally appropriate, and be prepared to use it in all government and private transactions. Make sure to keep a copy of all documents submitted during the change process, and the reasons should be convincingly explained to facilitate approval of the change, and avoid choosing names that may negatively affect professional and social dealings or relationships. After completing the change, make sure to update your data in all entities associated with your old name, and consult an attorney at every step to ensure that the legal procedures are completed correctly.

In conclusion, changing the name in Saudi Civil Status is a regulated legal procedure that aims to correct data and enable citizens to update their information in a way that suits their social reality. Although the process requires some time and adherence to controls, following the correct steps and completing documents ensures that it proceeds easily and quickly.

If you encounter any difficulties or legal inquiries, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a specialized lawyer from the office of Lawyer Abdul Majeed Al Rashid to guarantee your rights and the integrity of the name change procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change my name in any case?

Through the Civil Status Office: Fill out the name change form (Form 203), attach the required identity and documents, and submit the application for review and approval.
Via the Absher platform: Log in to your account, choose a service “change name” from the Civil Status Services, fill in the data, upload the required documents, and then wait for approval.

How long does it take to change a name in civil status?

Changing a name in civil status takes from 10 to 30 working days, depending on the method of application (paper or via Absher) and the type of change. The period may increase if additional approvals are required or an advertisement with the new name is published.

What paperwork is required to change a name?

National ID photo, family record, name change form (Form 203), report showing old and new name and reason for change, parent ID photo, conscription certificate for men, marriage contract (if any), and parental consent for those under 18 years of age.

How can I change my civil status title?

Submit an application through the Civil Status Office or Absher platform, Form (203), attach the ID and family record. The approval of family members is required when changing the surname or deleting the tribe name. After the committee’s approval, the surname becomes official.