A child’s name shapes his/her identity, and, therefore, the child has an interest in having a name that will be permanent and will not be changed without good reason. However, it is possible to change a child’s name under certain circumstances.
Right to change a child’s name
A child’s forename and family name can be changed by his/her parents or legal guardian. If a child has reached the age of nine and is according to their personal development capable of expressing their will, his/her consent to the change of name is required.
When the parents live separately, the change of the child's personal name may be requested by the parent to whom the child is entrusted with care and upbringing, only if the other parent agrees. If the parents are unable to reach an agreement, the centre for social work helps them. If they are still unsuccessful, the decision is taken by the court.
Paternity proceedings
Up until a child is eighteen years old, the parents can choose a new personal name for him/her in case of acknowledgement of paternity. If a child has reached the age of nine and is according to their personal development capable of expressing their will, his/her consent to the change of name is required.
Adopted child’s name
The adopting parents can choose a new personal and surname for the adopted child. A new surname may be assigned at any time, but the personal name cannot be changed between the ages of four and nine. If a child has reached the age of nine and is according to their personal development capable of expressing their will, his/her consent to the change of name is required.