At Simmelink Lawyers, we understand the importance of a first name that fits your identity. That’s why we offer expert help in changing your name, with a personalized and understanding approach to each unique situation. Our lawyers specialize in all aspects of the name change process, from legal advice to court processing.
Our experienced lawyers will guide you step by step in changing your first name. We offer clear advice and handle your application. You can choose a personal appointment at our office or the convenience of a video call, our quality remains the same.
Contact Simmelink Lawyers today for a seamless first name change that fits who you really are. Get a free consultation for your first name change.
What are reasons for changing your first name?
There are several reasons to change or modify your first name:
- A spelling error in your first name on the birth certificate
- You experience psychological distress, suffering or harassment with your first name
- Your foreign name does not fit well in the Netherlands
- After obtaining the X-status, your first name no longer fits
- Your first name does not match your religious beliefs
- You want an additional first name in memory of a family member or close acquaintance
Get a free consultation for your first name change.
How much does a first name change cost?
The cost for a first name change is €899. The costs consists of three components:
- Court fee: €314
These are the fees charged by the court to process your request for a first name change. - Attorney fees: €585
This includes costs for a comprehensive explanation, advice tailored to your situation, preparation and filing of the first name change request with the court. We will guide you through this process from start to finish. - Extract of birth certificate: € 0.
If you already have this extract in your own possession, there is no charge. Should you want us to apply for this for you, the cost is €75.
In certain situations, if there is sufficient interest, you may be eligible for an addition (subsidized legal aid).
Get free consultation and no-obligation advice for a first name change, you will know immediately how we can assist.
Our expertise
As a well-regarded family law firm, we are ready to help you:
- Proven procedure
We have achieved great success with requested first name changes through a thorough and tested approach. Currently, with our approach, all first name changes have been approved. - Reputation
We get excellent reviews with 5 stars, we hope this gives you confidence. - National reach
Regardless of where you live, we can apply for a first name change in all courts in the Netherlands. - Personal approach
We will guide you from a to z for changing your first name.
You are welcome for an initial no-obligation intake at our office in Maarssen – Utrecht or with an appointment via video call. No matter where you live, in the Netherlands, or abroad, we always guarantee quality and personal contact.
Reviews from former clients
Our clients value us for the quality of our advice, our expertise, the personal involvement of our attorneys, and the clarity in our communication. They often indicate that they wish they had stepped into our office sooner. Read all reviews.
Procedure to change the first name
The application process for a first name change has six clear steps:
- Intake interview
- Drafting petition
- Petition to court
- Judge’s assessment
- Change in marital status
- You have a new first name
Free consultation: do you qualify for a first name change?
What are reasons for a first name change?
- In memory of a family member or loved one
You would like to change or add a first name to honor someone special to you. This can include a dear family member such as a grandfather, grandmother, father or mother, or a beloved nickname from a loved one. - Psychological hindrance or suffering
Your first name brings up unpleasant memories from the past. This could include the family you grew up in or another situation that evokes traumatic memories for you. Maybe you expect your child’s name will be a source of bullying in the future. You may have experienced bullying in the past, at school or work. - Cultural origin or foreign first name
Your first name was a common first name in your country of birth, but it is not appropriate in the Netherlands because the name has a different meaning or is consistently mispronounced. - X status in intersex or nonbinary persons
Intersex or non-binary individuals who wish to obtain x status can change their first name to one that is more appropriate. - Incorrect birth declaration
The declaration of birth did not go well. For example, a first name was overlooked or a spelling error was made on the birth certificate. - Personal and emotional identification
The first name obtained from your parents does not suit you or you are named after a relative or acquaintance with whom you have nothing in common or do not even know. - Faith
A first name does not fit with a new faith you have adopted. - After adoption
You are adopted and have a foreign or Dutch first name that does not suit you. - First name does not match married surname
You are getting married and want to adopt your future spouse’s surname, but your first name does not match the surname.
To prepare a petition for a first name change, you need a lawyer
Adding, changing or deleting one or more first names requires a court order. For the first name change, you will need a lawyer. On your behalf, the lawyer may ask the court in a petition to add, change or remove one or more first names.
Based on the petition, the judge makes a decision on whether there is a good reason to change the first name. For the judge, your motivation for changing your first name is very important. Therefore, it is important that your lawyer carefully articulate your reasons and make the right argument.
Reviews from former clients
Our clients value us for the quality of our advice, our expertise, the personal involvement of our attorneys, and the clarity in our communication. They often indicate that they wish they had stepped into our office sooner. Read all reviews.
How much does changing a first name cost?
To change your first name in the Netherlands, the petition requires a fee that the court considers to cover the name change as a whole. The fee is not calculated per letter or per word.
The cost for a first name change is €899. The amount consists of three components:
- Court fee: €314
These are the fees charged by the court to process your request for a first name change. - Attorney fees: €585
This includes costs for a comprehensive explanation, advice tailored to your situation, preparation and filing of the first name change request with the court. Thanks to our thorough approach, you have a very high chance of successfully changing your name. We will guide you through this process from start to finish. - Extract of birth certificate: € 0.
If you already have this extract in your own possession, there is no charge. Should you want us to apply for this for you, the cost is €75.
Free consultation: do you qualify for a first name change? Click here for your free consultation.
Please read our positive reviews by clients who have gone before you. Please feel free to contact us to get acquainted. During our conversation, we can assess the feasibility of your wishes.
How long does the first name change procedure take?
The average time for changing first names is between two and six months. It varies depending on the court where your request is heard. There are a total of six steps in the procedure for a first name change.
Here is an overview of the timeline:
- Within a week
Intake interview with the lawyer
During this conversation, we will discuss the reason and your motivation for the name change. - Within two weeks
Submitting petition
We prepare and file the petition with the court. The reason and motivation are clearly described so that the court has a clear understanding of your situation. - Usually within two months
Judge’s ruling
This may vary, as some courts may seek additional advice from the district attorney and/or the relevant municipality. - More than three months after the ruling
Waiting for final change
After the court’s ruling, the appeal period (three months) must be waited before the name change is officially processed by the municipality. - Processing in marital status
Your new first name will be officially registered with the municipality. - Requesting new documents
Once the name is changed, you can apply for new identity documents, such as a passport, ID card and driver’s license with your new first name on it.
Note: The duration of the procedure may be affected if no Dutch birth certificate is available. In such cases, such as a foreign birth certificate, the procedure may take longer. The foreign certificate must then be converted, or a replacement birth certificate can be requested.
Six easy steps to change a first name
Changing a first name is a straightforward process consisting of six steps. We want you to know exactly what to expect and follow along with your first name change process.
Intake interview
The intake interview is non-binding and free of charge. We will discuss your reason for wanting to change your first name.
To save travel time and costs, the introductory meeting can be by phone, email or video call. In this way, you can save travel time and costs. Of course, you are also welcome to visit our office in Maarssen (Utrecht) or Amsterdam.
Drafting of petition
We prepare the petition that contains the rationale for the desired change. This may be a change, addition or deletion of one or more first names.
Then, we send the petition to you in draft form for additions or changes. It is important to ensure that the desired first name is written flawlessly and that all reasoning is worded correctly.
Filing petition with court
After you approve the petition, we send the petition to the court.
A recent copy of your birth certificate, not older than three months, shall be attached to the petition. If you were born abroad, an original birth certificate will suffice. If the birth certificate has not been converted to a Dutch certificate, this can be requested from the court in the same first name change procedure. You can also choose to do this yourself at the Hague municipality. For more information, see the Hague City Council website. If you do not have a birth certificate or you cannot obtain one because you cannot return to your native country, a replacement birth certificate may be requested in addition to a request for a first name change.
Assessment by court
The court assesses whether the request meets the requirements and is based on sound reasoning.
The pronouncement of a first name change is usually in writing, without a hearing. This means that you do not have to come to court for an oral hearing.
With this, the assignment of the new first name is not yet official. First, the statutory three-month period to appeal must be waited.
Changing birth certificate and updating BRP
After the statutory three-month period has passed, the court sends the ruling to the municipality where your birth certificate is located. If you were born abroad, the ruling will be sent to the municipality of The Hague.
Next, the registrar adds the record of the changed first name behind the original birth certificate and for people living in the Netherlands, enters the changes in the Basic Registration of Persons (BRP). Government organizations connected to the BRP receive the changes automatically. Your bank, insurance company and other agencies, such as your workplace and sports club, will require an update from you.
Your first name is officially changed once it is added to your birth certificate by the municipality.
The new first name is official
With the registration of your new first name, it is officially established. You have successfully changed your first name the way you wanted it.
The most frequently asked questions about a first name change (FAQ)
Here you will find frequently asked questions from clients about first name changes.
How long does it take to change first names?
The average time for changing first names is between two and six months. It varies depending on the court where your request is heard.
How common is the desire to change one’s first name?
At Simmelink Lawyers, we have developed considerable expertise over the years in assisting clients in changing their first names.
We see that the desire to change a name often stems from personal reasons. Many of our clients have experienced that their given name does not match their identity, which can lead to discomfort and even psychological stress in daily life. This ranges from experiencing teasing or bullying to a strong personal preference for a different name. In some cases, clients have a desire to add or remove a second name.
Our experience at Simmelink Lawyers shows that with us, the success rate of name changes is high, thanks to our expert guidance and thorough knowledge of the legal procedures. We have helped countless clients achieve their desired first name change, which has consistently resulted in satisfied clients and appreciation for our smooth and clear process.
Many people want to change their first name, and at Simmelink Lawyers, we can help. We have extensive experience and are ready to guide you through every step of this important process.
What does the procedure of a name change look like?
The change of a first name change consists of 6 steps:
- Intake interview
- Drafting petition
- Petition to court
- Judge’s assessment
- Change in marital status
- You have a new first name
How much does changing the first name cost per letter?
It is a misconception that the cost of changing the first name depends on the number of letters. See also what does changing the first name cost?
Can I have the name on my old diplomas changed?
Yes, it is possible to change the name on your old diplomas. Below are the steps to follow:
- Application to DUO
For diplomas issued by Dutch educational institutions, you can request a replacement diploma from the Department of Education ( DUO). They offer support in the process of changing the name on your diplomas. You can contact DUO for detailed information about the procedure and any required documentation. - Contacting your educational institution
If your degree was issued by a specific educational institution, you should contact that institution directly. Inquire about their specific policies and procedures for changing names on diplomas. They can provide you with the necessary forms and guide you through the process.
Important to know
- Possible costs
Please remember that there may be a fee to change the name on your diplomas. - Required documents
Make sure you have all necessary documents on hand, such as a valid ID and, if applicable, official documents confirming the name change.
Can I change my first name if I live abroad or was born abroad?
If you were born abroad and you live in the Netherlands, in many cases it is possible to have your first name changed.
Your request for a change of first name will be sent to the Hague District Court. If the judge rules in favor, the written ruling will be sent to the Hague municipality. Then the birth certificate will be updated and the change is final.
In case your birth certificate is not yet registered at the Hague Civil Registry, this will first have to be done by you yourself or you can apply to the court for a change of first name in the first name procedure.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
What are the conditions for changing a first name?
In the Netherlands, you can choose your own first name. There is no mandatory list of names. The two main conditions for changing a first name are:
– the first name change must have a sufficiently compelling interest.
– the new first name should not be an inappropriate name or surname unless it is a common first name.
For example, someone can bear the first name “Mensje”. The first name “Woman” is not allowed because it is a description of a capacity.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
At what age may I change my first name?
To change your first name, you must be at least 18 years old. However, it is also possible for minors to request a first name change request. Only the parent or guardian with joint or parental authority can make the request.
It is also possible to add or delete one or more first names.
Based on article 1:4 of the Civil Code, the court may, at the request of the person wishing to amend the first name or at the request of its legal representative, amend a first name.
Can the first name of a child (under 18) be changed?
However, it is also possible for minors to request a first name change request. Only the parent or guardian with joint or parental authority can make the request.
It is also possible to add or delete one or more first names.
Based on article 1:4 of the Civil Code, the court may, at the request of the person wishing to amend the first name or at the request of its legal representative, amend a first name.
As a transgender person, how can I change my first name?
Do you want to change your first name as a transgender person? With us, you have come to the right place. We are one of the pioneers in the Netherlands in this field.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
Can I change my last name or gender name?
It is possible to change your family name or surname.
Changing a surname is handled by Justis. Justis is the screening authority of the Ministry of Justice and Security in the field of integrity.
The request for a different surname is completed through the Justis application process. You are not required to hire a lawyer to want to change your last name.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
Can I change my first name as x-status?
Simmelink Lawyers is the pioneer for obtaining x-status. We know exactly what it takes in the process of obtaining x-status. Given that a gender-neutral status often aligns more appropriately with a different first name than the current one, we combine the application for x-status with a request to change the first name.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
What first names can I choose?
When it comes to choosing first names, there is no mandatory list in the Netherlands.
You have the freedom to select a first name of your choice. However, two restrictions are established by law:
1. The first name chosen must not be inappropriate or offensive.
2. It is not permitted to use an existing last name as a first name unless that first name is used frequently.
To ensure that the desired first name meets the legal requirements, you can ask us for free advice on whether the first name change is possible.
Do I have to be physically present in the Netherlands to change my first name under Dutch law?
No, physical presence in the Netherlands is not required to change your first name according to Dutch law. We have the option of video calling. This means you can take the following steps without having to come to our office:
- Making an appointment
You make an appointment for a video call. During this interview, we will provide all the necessary information and answer your questions. - Submit documents digitally
All required documents for the first name change can be submitted digitally. - Online support
We will support you every step of the way and you can always contact us if you have any questions.
As a Dutch citizen born abroad and without registration of my birth certificate in the Dutch civil registry, how can I change my first name?
In a situation where your birth certificate is not recorded in the Dutch civil registry, it is necessary to obtain an official copy of your foreign birth certificate. This copy must be legalized and translated by a licensed certified translator. You can apply for this birth certificate in the country where you were born. Once the deed is legalized and translated, it will be recognized in the Netherlands, allowing you to begin the process of changing your first name.
