Declaration of harmonisation

Persons who have acquired a name under foreign law and whose use of that name will in future be governed by German law may, under certain conditions, submit a declaration of alignment to the registry office in accordance with Section 47 of the Introductory Act to the Civil Code (EGBGB).

Under German naming law, a person’s name generally consists of a first name and a surname. The surname indicates membership of a family, whilst the first names serve to distinguish individuals from one another.

The declaration of harmonisation allows a name previously used in accordance with foreign law to be brought into line with German naming conventions. This applies, for example, to the spelling, the order of the name’s components, or the decision as to which names are to be used as first names and surnames in future.

Such a declaration may be considered, particularly following naturalisation.

Submission of the declaration in person

Adults who have legal capacity may submit the declaration of alignment to the registry office. It is not possible to be represented by an authorised representative.

If the change relates to a married name or if such a name is to be used in future, a joint declaration with the spouse is required whilst the marriage is in force.

Minors aged 14 and over must make the declaration themselves. In addition, the consent of their legal representative is required. The declaration of alignment, together with any necessary consents and authorisations, must be notarised or certified.

Responsibility

The following person is responsible for receiving (and validating) the declaration:

• the registry office which maintains the German birth register for the person concerned,
• in the absence of a national birth register, the registry office responsible for maintaining the marriage register,
• If there is no German civil registry, the registry office in the place of residence.

Once the name has been officially changed, a certificate to that effect can be issued on request. The registry office will also inform the relevant registration authority of the name change.