Change first name-series-sequence in plain language

Do you have several first names?

For example:
Marie Luise.

And you want to change the sequence?

For example to:
Luise Marie.

This is possible.

To do this, you must submit a declaration to the registry office.

• What is allowed?
• What is not allowed?
• Who can change the series sequence?
• Where do you submit the declaration?
• What do you need?
• What does it cost?
• Where can you get help and advice?

You may have several first names.

You can then change the sequence.

You don't have to say any reason for this.

For example:
Marie Luise becomes Luise Marie.

Important:
There is one exception.

Some names have a hyphen.

For example:
Marie-Luise.

Then the name is considered a name.

The series sequence may not be changed.

You may only change the row sequence.

You are not allowed to do this:

• write the name differently
• add a firstname
• Omit a first name

If you want to,

then you need a public
name change.

There must be important reasons for this.

And you must submit another application.

You can find information on this here:
"Changing your first name in plain language"

Your name must be registered in accordance with German law.

This applies, for example, to:

• German citizens
• Persons entitled to asylum
• Foreign refugees
• Stateless persons

The registry office in your place of residence is responsible.

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

You will need documents for the application.

For example:

• Personal ID card or passport
• For persons entitled to asylum:
  • Entry of the foreigners authority in the passport
  • oder Pass-Ersatz
• Bei aus-ländischen Geflüchteten:
  • Entry of the foreigners authority in the passport
  • oder Pass-Ersatz
• Bei staaten-losen Personen:
  • Travel document
  • or entry of the immigrationauthority in your passport
  • or passport replacement

You may need additional documents.

Check with the registry office.

Changing the series sequence costs money.

How much money does it cost?

Check with the registry office.

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

For example:

• 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.