🇩🇪Germany

Namensänderung

Legal name change after marriage, divorce, or personal reasons

Medium~15 minName 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

1Identify the Reason

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

2Gather Documents

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

3Submit Application

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

4Receive Confirmation

You receive a certificate confirming the name change.

5Update 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.