Change of first name

What should I do?

• Contact a lawyer.
• The lawyer then files the application with the court.
• In the case of a minor, one of the parents or the guardian must submit the request through an attorney.

Editing documents

• Your new first name must appear on your identification documents. Therefore, please apply for a new passport, ID card, and/or driver’s license.
• If the court decides that your first name may be changed, the local government will update your birth certificate.
• The municipality will record your new first name. All government agencies that receive information from the municipality will then also know your new first name.
• You will need to notify other agencies yourself that you have a new first name.

What do I need?

• Your valid ID

How long does it take?

That depends on how busy the court is.

File an appeal

Did the judge deny your application? If so, you can file an appeal with the court of appeals within 3 months.

Additional information

Transgender individuals do not need to go to court to change their first name. A transgender individual can apply directly to the local government. However, certain documents are required, including a statement from a doctor.