Change of name under civil law

In contrast to the official name changes, the name changes according to civil law exclusively concern the family name. This regularly requires a corresponding declaration at the registry office.

The following transactions under civil law can lead to name changes (the list is not exhaustive):

  • Marriage
  • Subsequent determination of a married name
  • re-adoption of a former name after divorce
  • subsequent declaration on the naming of children
  • Adoption
  • Name declarations of expellees and late repatriates
  • Name declarations after naturalization

Upon request, the registry office will provide detailed information on the relevant civil status case and the applicable fees.

 

  • BGB, PStG, PStV, Cost Act