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Naming Law

Before applying for a German passport, it must be resolved which surname you bear with regard to German law. If you have a German birth certificate, the surname is usually determined. If you only have a Non-German birth certificate, the name entered therein is not always acknowledged under German law.

You will find information on common constellations below.

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Change of name after marriage

You got married outside of Germany and would like to use your new name in your German passport? Before you can apply for a new passport with your new name, you might have to submit a name declaration.

wedding rings

Change of name after divorce

Would you like to take your birth name again after your divorce? Before you can apply for a new passport with your new name, you must first submit a name declaration.

Stamp on divorce papers

Name at birth

Change in German Name Law On May 1, 2025, the reform of the German marriage name and birth name law, as well as international naming law, came into effect. This provides new options for both German…

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