🇩🇪 Germany

Namensänderung

Legal name change after marriage, divorce, or personal reasons

Medium ~15 min Name ChangeMarriageDivorceLegal

/ What is this form?

Name changes after marriage or divorce are handled by the Standesamt and are straightforward. Other name changes (personal reasons) require an application to the Namensänderungsbehörde and a 'wichtiger Grund' (important reason). Costs vary widely.

/ Who needs this form?

People getting married (Ehename)
People after divorce (reverting to birth name)
People with names causing significant personal hardship
Trans people changing first name (since 2024 Selbstbestimmungsgesetz)

/ What you need before you start

Current ID or passport

Birth certificate

Marriage certificate or divorce decree

For personal name changes: written justification

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Identify the Reason

Marriage or divorce name changes go through the Standesamt. Personal name changes require the Namensänderungsbehörde and a 'wichtiger Grund'.

2 Gather Documents

Collect current ID, birth certificate, and marriage or divorce certificate if applicable.

3 Submit Application

Submit your application to the appropriate authority with written justification if needed.

4 Receive Confirmation

You receive a certificate confirming the name change.

5 Update All Documents

Update your ID, passport, bank accounts, employer records, and insurance policies.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
Gewünschter Name	The new name you want	Personal name changes require a documented important reason — not all reasons qualify

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not updating all documents after the change (ID, passport, bank, insurance)

Thinking any reason qualifies for a personal name change (you need an important reason)

/ Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost?

Marriage or divorce name change: €2.50–€25. Personal name change: €200–€1,000+ depending on complexity.