How Do I Change My Surname in Zimbabwe?

You may be wondering how to change your surname if you live in Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, it is legal to change your name but you should make sure that you have all the legal documents to prove your new name. It takes approximately three weeks to change your name. You will need to take a Notarial Deed of Change of Name or a Deed Poll, proof of advertisement, and your birth certificate to the Registrar General’s office.

In Zimbabwe, you can change your surname to reflect your ethnicity and the place you live in. You can change your surname to Mbare, for example. You can keep the European spelling if you live in Bulawayo. You can also choose a different surname such as Beitbridge which is the country’s second-largest city.

Changing your surname is possible under the Births and Deaths Registration Act, section 18(3). You will need to apply and pay prescribed fees in order to change your name. In addition, you will need to show the Registrar-General that you have registered your notarial deed of change of name with the Deeds Registry and that the change has been published in the Gazette. If you are under 18, a responsible adult should submit the application. This person is your legal guardian.