Surname Choice for Partners in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, partners can make a surname choice when entering into a marriage or registered partnership. This decision determines the joint family name and often that of future children. Thanks to the city's diversity, this offers considerable flexibility, but weigh the implications carefully. Learn about the options and steps at the Municipality of Amsterdam.
Legal Basis for Surname Choice
The surname choice for partners is governed by Civil Code Book 1 (CC). Key provisions include:
- Article 1:10 CC: Establishes surname choice upon marriage or registered partnership (RP).
- Article 1:11 CC: Regulates the surname for children born during the marriage or RP.
- Article 1:12 CC: Provides options for changes after termination of the marriage or RP.
Since the family law reform in 2018, there is greater freedom of choice. Previously, women often took their husband's name, but now equality applies to all residents of Amsterdam.
Available Options for Surname Choice in Amsterdam
At the civil registry office of the Municipality of Amsterdam, partners choose together before the ceremony. Four main variants:
| Option | Explanation | Example (Amsterdam Context) | Impact on Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Retain own name | Each partner keeps their original surname. | Piet Jansen and Aisha El-Masri remain Jansen and El-Masri. | Children receive the name of one parent or a combination (art. 1:11 CC). |
| 2. Adopt partner's name | One partner adopts the other's surname. | Aisha El-Masri becomes Aisha Jansen. | Children bear the shared name by default. |
| 3. New joint name | Both adopt an existing or new shared surname. | Both become 'Van der Meer' (new). | Children automatically receive this name. |
| 4. Combination (pre/post) | Personal name combined with partner's name. | Piet becomes Piet El-Masri Jansen; Aisha becomes Aisha Jansen El-Masri. | Children choose from variants. |
This choice applies to children born during the marriage or RP, unless otherwise agreed.
Procedure for Surname Choice at Municipality of Amsterdam
Follow these steps:
- Preparation: Discuss options early. Check requirements at the Municipality of Amsterdam.
- Marriage/RP Declaration: Schedule an appointment at the civil registry (at least 14 days in advance).
- Register Choice: Sign the 'Family Name Choice' form with the registrar – this is final.
- Post-Ceremony Actions: Update passports and documents.
- Costs: Choice is free; new passport approx. €70-€100 at Municipality of Amsterdam.
For international couples: additional information via Ministry of Justice and Security.
Practical Examples of Surname Choice in Amsterdam
Example 1: Traditional Option
Laura de Boer (32) and Karim Bouziane (35) marry in Amsterdam. Laura takes 'Bouziane'. Children are named Bouziane. After divorce, Laura can revert to De Boer via Amsterdam District Court (art. 1:12 CC).
Example 2: Cultural Double Name
Sofia Mendes and Raj Patel choose 'Mendes Patel'. Ideal for Amsterdam's multicultural families; children bear the same name.
Example 3: Professional Retention
Career-focused couples in Amsterdam-South, such as lawyers, retain their own names for networking. Children decide later.
Rights and Obligations Regarding Surname Choice
Rights:
- Joint decision: No unilateral choice possible.
- Revision: Free within 3 months; later via Amsterdam District Court (€300+).
- For children: Parents determine name at birth, aligned with marriage.
Obligations:
- Notify name change everywhere: DUO, employer, bank.
- No confusion: Choice must be clear.
- International: Double names may cause issues abroad.
Related: Name Change after Marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Surname Choice in Amsterdam
Can I change my surname later?
Yes, free within 3 months at Municipality of Amsterdam. Thereafter via Amsterdam District Court with compelling reason (art. 1:12 CC). Costs: €528 + lawyer.
What happens in case of divorce?
Revert to former name or retain. Children keep name unless court intervenes.
Valid for RP?
Yes, same as marriage (art. 1:19 CC). No automatic change for cohabitation.
For children from previous relationships?
Upon recognition/guardianship, parents choose. Child retains name unless otherwise.
Tips for Amsterdam Residents
- Plan Ahead: Consider work, children, and relocation. Double names are trendy but bureaucratic.
- Expert Help: Complex case? Contact Juridisch Loket Amsterdam or family law attorney.
- Documents: Bring IDs to appointment at Municipality of Amsterdam.