Name change (name declaration) Unfortunately this specification of service has not yet been completely translated.

The name change (name declaration) describes the process of changing the family name in connection with a change of civil status. Name changes may occur in the following cases, among others:

In children

• The mother's name is given with the consent of the non-custodial parent,
• Naming by the mother and her husband,
• redefinition of the birth name after justification of the joint custody by the parents,
• Declaration of connection to a name change of the parents or one of the parents,
• first determination of a birth name after the birth of the child abroad.

For spouses, life partners, divorcees, widows

• subsequent determination of a married name, for example after marriage abroad,
• Declaration of a double name (prefix and appending of a name to the married name) by a spouse,
• Revocation of the addition of a name to the married name,
• Re-adoption of the former name after dissolution of the marriage.

Whether and in what form a name change (name declaration) is possible in the respective case must be clarified in individual cases.

Attention: Name changes (name declarations) are always irrevocable.

As different documents have to be submitted on a case-by-case basis, it is recommended that you contact the competent body in advance.

• §§ 1355, 1616 to 1618 Civil Code (BGB),
• Art. 10 para. 2 and 3 Introductory Act to the Bgb (EGBGB).

Related Links

• BGB (German Civil Code
• Art. 10 EGBGB