Gender entry - First name - Change of gender entry and first name (SBGG)

The Act on Self-Determination with regard to Gender Registration (Self-Determination Act - SBGG) came into force on 1 November 2024.

This allows persons whose gender identity differs from their gender entry in the civil register to declare to the registry office that the information on their gender (male, female, diverse) be replaced or deleted.

The change will be made in two stages:

1. registration of planned changes of gender and first names:

• three months before the actual declaration (stage 2) at the German registry office where the subsequent declaration is to be made,
• in person (by appointment),

or

• in writing.

Note: The registration expires if the declaration (stage 2) has not been submitted within 6 months. The declaration must then be submitted again.

2. declaration of changes of gender and first names:

• possible at the earliest 3 months after registration (stage 1),
• In person at the registry office where the registration took place (by appointment).

The declaration becomes effective upon receipt by the registry office of your birth - if you were born in Beckum, this means immediately, if you were born elsewhere, only upon receipt by the registry office of your place of birth.

Please contact us if you

• are a minor or require information for the declaration for a minor child or
• do not have German citizenship.