NO2ID

Hi. I obtained French citizenship not too long ago, and with it, I changed my name to something a little more French. Basically, there's just a mention on my French birth certificate that "[old name] is allowed to legally call himself by [new name]".

It doesn't say anything about my old name being changed, just that I'm legally permitted to use this new name. I assume that's because France has no jurisdiction over the names of citizens of other countries. So, basically, what I'd like to confirm is if I can still use my British identity? As far as Britain is concerned, I'm still my old British self, correct? Unless I choose to change my name on my passport I suppose, but I don't. I like my British name and wish to keep it if possible.

Thanks for reading.

No idea, anyone?

You are "legally" permitted to use any name you want to refer to yourself. What they meant was "[old name] is allowed to call himself by [new name] for official purposes" (emphasis mine) and that only applies to official documentation from that country.

Unless you renounced British nationality, you're still British and can call yourself [British name], even in France. Even if you did renounce British natilnality you just happen to have two names in France, both recognised by the state for purposes of identification.

Thanks! That's what I thought too.