Change first name in plain language

Would you like to change your first name?

This is possible.

But:
You need an important reason.

You must submit a request for the change.

• When is a change permitted?
• When is a change not permitted?
• Where do you submit the application?
• What do you need?
• What does it cost?
• Where can you get help and advice?

You need an important reason for a change.

For example:

• The first name is difficult to speak.
• The first name is difficult to write.
• The first name is easily confused.
• Other people make fun of the first name.
• The first name makes you ill.
• A person has changed their gender.
• Religious reasons

The competent authority examines every application carefully.

Perhaps you don't like your first name.

Maybe your first name sounds strange.

Maybe your first name comes from another language.

You can still not change your name.

You may be in debt to other people.

And you want to hide from these people.

Then you can't change your name either.

First contact the registry office in your place of residence.

You can get more information there.

The registry office is usually in the council building or in the citizens' office.

You will need documents for the application.

• Personal ID card or passport
• Birth certificate
• For persons entitled to asylum:
  Entry by the immigration authorities in the passport or passport replacement
• For foreign refugees:
  Entered by the immigration authorities in your passport or passport replacement
• For stateless persons:
  Travel document, entry by the immigration authorities in your passport or passport replacement

You may need further documents.

Check with the relevant authority.

A change of first name costs money.

How much money does it cost?

This varies from federal state to federal state.

The competent authority may say No to your application.

In this case, you will still have to pay part of the costs.

This is usually 10 to 50 percent of the fee.

Important:
After the change, you must apply for new documents.

For example:

• Personal ID card or passport
• Driver's license

These documents also cost money.

Do you have any questions?

Then the registry office in your city can help.

Don't know which registry office is responsible?

Then search the Internet for:

"Registry office + your place of residence".

Or call the authority number.

The telephone number is 115.