Subsequent determination of the family name in the case of a marriage contracted in Germany

You have the option of choosing a married name during an existing marriage if you have not already done so at the time of the marriage.
The married name can be your own birth name or that of your spouse. The declaration must be made personally by both spouses and is irrevocable during the marriage.
It is also possible to declare a surname acquired in a previous marriage as the joint surname.
If you already have children together, they are automatically included in the name determination if they are under 5 years old. If the joint children are over 5 years old, a separate declaration is required.

Documents required

• Birth certificates of both spouses
• marriage certificate
• Identity card or passport
• Birth certificates of joint children, if applicable

Subsequent determination of the family name in the case of a marriage contracted abroad

If you got married abroad, please call for the required documents.

Double name determination

If you have determined a married name, the spouse whose name has not become the married name may prefix or append his or her maiden name or surname used before the marriage. This declaration may be revoked at any time. However, a renewed double name choice is no longer permitted.

Required documents

• Marriage certificate
• Identity card or passport

Resumption of a former name after dissolution of marriage

After the dissolution of the marriage, either by divorce or death of the spouse, you may resume your maiden name or the family name you had before the marriage. This declaration must be made in person and is irrevocable.

Required documents:

• Marriage certificate
• legally binding divorce decree or death certificate of the spouse
• Identity card or passport

Fees

Please ask the responsible administrator for the amount of the fees.