Changing your legal name in Timor-Leste is a structured process that requires approval from the Ministry of Justice and the Civil Registry. Whether you’re changing your name after marriage, divorce, or for personal reasons, this guide explains how to change your name in Timor-Leste step-by-step.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
You can request a name change if you:
- Dislike your current name or its spelling
- Are recently married or divorced
- Want to remove family or cultural associations
- Are adopting or transitioning genders
The law allows changes to first names, middle names, surnames, or any combination.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Gather the following:
- Identity Card (original and photocopy)
- Certificate of Criminal Record
- Written request addressed to the Minister of Justice
- Application addressed to the Registrar
Depending on your situation:
- Divorced spouses must provide a commitment statement from the former spouse.
- Widowed individuals remarrying must provide a self-declaration during the marriage process.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Deliver your application to the National Directorate of Registry and Notary or your local civil registry office. Include all documents and clearly state your current name and the new name you wish to adopt.
Use this contact for submissions:
National Directorate of Registry and Notary
Avenida Jacinto Cândido, Dili, East Timor
📞 (+670) 7723 0056 | 📧 [email protected]
Step 4: Court Review and Endorsement
The court will review your petition. If accepted, a judge will issue a decision, and the change will be officially endorsed. This endorsement is sent to:
- Your place of birth registration
- The Civil Identification Service
Note: Name changes without court approval are only allowed if resulting from marriage, adoption, parenthood, or minor grammatical corrections.
Step 5: Update Your Official Documents
After approval:
- Update your identity card
- Notify banks, employers, schools, and government institutions
- Update your passport and driver’s license
Processing Time and Fees
Processing times vary but may take several weeks depending on court schedules. Contact the registry office for the latest fee structure.
Important Notes
- Brothers cannot have the same name unless one is deceased.
- Names must reflect your gender clearly.
- Traditional name structures are respected if properly declared.
- All legal changes must follow Article 78 of the Civil Registration Code.
Why You Should Change Your Name Legally
Although not legally required for informal use, formal name change:
- Ensures official recognition
- Prevents identity confusion
- Provides legal protection and documentation
- Allows updates to all national and international records
Government Contacts
Ministry of Justice – Office of the Minister
📍 Avenida Jacinto Cândido, Dili
📞 (+670) 7723 0131 (General)
📞 (+670) 7723 0070 (Minister’s Office)
📧 [email protected]
Changing your name in Timor-Leste is easier when you follow each legal step and provide accurate documentation. With this guide, you now know how to change your name in Timor-Leste confidently and correctly.
National Directorate of Registry and Notary
