{"id":36242,"date":"2026-03-17T19:02:20","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T18:02:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/"},"modified":"2026-03-17T20:27:24","modified_gmt":"2026-03-17T19:27:24","slug":"tweede-voornaam","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/","title":{"rendered":"Middle name"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"s-section\">\n<div class=\"s-section-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-grid-toc_main gb-element-94926826\">\n<div class=\"s-section-sidebar\">\n<div class=\"s-sidebar-block-toc gb-element-bf14a539\">\n<p class=\"gb-text\">On this page<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#When_is_changing_or_adding_a_middle_name_possible\" >When is changing or adding a middle name possible?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Difference_from_changing_a_first_name\" >Difference from changing a first name<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#How_do_the_legal_proceedings_work\" >How do the legal proceedings work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Adding_a_baptismal_name_as_an_official_first_name\" >Adding a baptismal name as an official first name<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Example_from_practice\" >Example from practice<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Duration_and_costs\" >Duration and costs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Feasibility_Check_for_your_First_Name_Change\" >Feasibility Check for your First Name Change<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/#Trust_and_quality\" >Trust and quality<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-section-main s-stack-2xl gb-element-6c76d265\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block s-content-block--filled gb-element-83291db1 block-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"s-content-block-narrow\">\n<p class=\"gb-text gb-text-6cd05df4\">In brief<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Changing or adding a middle name is a legal procedure based on Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code, in which the court, upon request, allows a first name to be changed, added, or removed from the birth certificate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Middle names fall under the same legal framework as first names: a change requires a compelling reason and a petition filed through the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adding a name that is already used in practice can constitute a compelling reason.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Removing a middle name is possible if that name is burdensome or no longer corresponds with the petitioner&#8217;s identity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A baptismal name or a common name that is not on the birth certificate can be added in certain cases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The legal proceedings take place through the court and must be submitted by a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">lawyer<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_changing_or_adding_a_middle_name_possible\"><\/span>When is changing or adding a middle name possible?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The law stipulates as a condition that there must be a compelling reason (<a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">Article 1:4 paragraph 4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>). This applies to all first names, including middle and subsequent names. The court assesses whether the reason provided is sufficiently weighty.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Situations that can be put forward as a compelling reason in practice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Adding a name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The name has been used in practice for a long time but is not included in official documents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There is a religious, cultural, or family reason to add a name, such as a baptismal name or a name from family tradition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Following a change in <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/family-law\/request-x-in-passport\/\">gender registration<\/a>, an appropriate first name is added.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Changing a middle name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The middle name evokes negative associations or is burdensome in daily life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name does not match the petitioner&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/genderidentiteit\/\">gender identity<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name contains a spelling error or was incorrectly registered at the time of birth notification.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Removing a middle name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The name is a reminder of a traumatic event or a broken family relationship.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name causes confusion or inconvenience in official situations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name is never used and the petitioner wishes to simplify their administration.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether a specific situation provides sufficient grounds depends on the circumstances of the case. The court assesses each request individually. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Difference_from_changing_a_first_name\"><\/span>Difference from changing a first name<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>From a legal perspective, the law makes no distinction between a first and a middle name: Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code refers to &#8216;first names&#8217; in general. The legal proceedings and the requirement of a compelling reason are identical. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In practice, a judge may rule slightly more leniently when adding or changing a middle name than when completely replacing a first name, as the impact on the identity of the petitioner and their environment is generally smaller. However, this is not a fixed rule and depends on the specific circumstances. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_the_legal_proceedings_work\"><\/span>How do the legal proceedings work?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The legal proceedings for changing or adding a middle name follow the same process as <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">changing a first name<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Assessment of the situation<\/strong><br\/>Simmelink Lawyers discusses the reason for the change, the actual use of the desired name, and any supporting documentation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Drafting the petition<\/strong><br\/>The petition is legally substantiated with the compelling reason, personal circumstances, and the importance of the change for the petitioner.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Submission to the court<\/strong><br\/>The petition is submitted by the lawyer. In most cases, the request is handled without a hearing. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Court order and registration<\/strong><br\/>After approval by the judge, the change is added to the birth certificate as a subsequent entry. The change only becomes officially effective after the three-month appeal period has expired. Only then can the passport, ID card, and other documents be updated.  <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Adding_a_baptismal_name_as_an_official_first_name\"><\/span>Adding a baptismal name as an official first name<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A baptismal name given during a church baptism but not registered with the civil registry is not on the birth certificate and therefore does not appear in the passport or the Personal Records Database (BRP). It is possible to have such a name added as an official first name through the court. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When can you add a baptismal name?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The court assesses whether there is a compelling reason for adding the baptismal name. The following factors are relevant: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The baptismal name has been used in practice for a long time in daily or religious life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The name has a clear religious, cultural, or family significance for the petitioner.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Documentation of the baptism is available, such as a baptismal certificate or a mention in a church magazine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The discrepancy between the baptismal name and the official name causes confusion or inconvenience on official occasions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether the specific circumstances provide sufficient grounds depends on the concrete situation. The court assesses each request individually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Adding a baptismal name or replacing a first name?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two routes. You can add the baptismal name alongside your existing names so that both names appear in official documents. Or you can request that the baptismal name becomes your first or only name. The second route is more significant and requires stronger substantiation of the compelling reason.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Baptismal name and religious beliefs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you wish to add a baptismal name due to a new religious belief after conversion, additional considerations apply. Please see our page on <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/religieuze-bekering\/\">changing a first name due to religious conversion<\/a>. If you wish to distance yourself from a baptismal name because you are no longer religious, you can read more on our page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/doopnaan-niet-meer-gelovig\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"36147\">removing a baptismal name when no longer religious<\/a>.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What documentation is useful?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A baptismal certificate or a mention in a church or municipal magazine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Correspondence or other documents featuring the baptismal name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A statement from the church community or the baptismal service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proof of long-term actual use of the name in the immediate environment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers advises on which documentation is most relevant to your situation. Schedule a <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">consultation<\/a> to discuss your case. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example_from_practice\"><\/span>Example from practice<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Adding a family name as a middle name<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In one case, a client wanted to add a name that had been passed down in the family for generations but was not registered at his birth. The name had been used informally within the family circle his entire life. The petition was substantiated by family tradition, statements from family members, and long-term actual use of the name. The court assessed the grounds provided and allowed the addition.   <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<p><em>Content verified by the team at Simmelink Lawyers, specialized in name law and family law.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Duration_and_costs\"><\/span>Duration and costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The legal proceedings take an average of up to six months from the moment of submission to the court.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The court fee is EUR 341 for all courts in the Netherlands.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A fixed price agreement is made in advance for the services of Simmelink Lawyers. The fixed rate is EUR 619. Read more about the <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">costs of a name change<\/a>.  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-e35b293b wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3945255d\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-d8e81505 gb-headline-text\" id=\"haalbaarheidscheck\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Feasibility_Check_for_your_First_Name_Change\"><\/span>Feasibility Check for your First Name Change<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7f166354\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a76f6e9e\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-1dbb95f0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1dbb95f0\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Within one working day, you will receive an expert assessment of your request. This way you quickly gain clarity, peace of mind, and a plan \u2013 with the best interests of your child as the starting point.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0712d0d3 s-btn-group\">\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-39b0fa65 gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam&#038;cta=bottom\">Feasibility check request<\/a>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-23750f4e gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"#plan-online-afspraak\">Schedule your online intake appointment yourself<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-d69b8d25\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d69b8d25\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Na het invullen van het contactformulier.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/zpqB8WhTp5I?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-advocaten-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text\" id=\"advocaten\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Our_Attorneys_at_Law\"><\/span>Our Attorneys at Law<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Simmelink Lawyers team specializes in family law, International family law, and inheritance law.<br\/>The lawyers combine legal expertise with international experience.<br\/>Clients are guided by one dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire process and communicates discreetly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A specialized lawyer is essential in complex financial situations or international components.<br\/>Our goal: legally correct, enforceable agreements that bring peace and clarity.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3bd256ba\">\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-5dcdaabb gb-query-loop-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23938 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Carla Simmelink\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/carla-2.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/carla-simmelink\/\">Carla Simmelink &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law and Inheritance Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-29865 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Valerie Lingg\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Valerie-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/valerie-lingg\/\">Valerie Lingg &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-23939 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Eva Zaunbrecher\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Eva.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/eva-zaunbrecher-bosschlo\/\">Eva Zaunbrecher-Boschloo &#8211; Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Lawyer at Law (International) Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-b6d769df gb-query-loop-item post-36349 advocaat type-advocaat status-publish hentry\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-b6d769df\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7443210b\">\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-943d9da3\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg\" class=\"gb-image-943d9da3\" alt=\"Sophia Sips\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1200x1200.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sophia-2048x2048.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n<h3 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-f2d3d794 gb-headline-text\"><a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-team\/attorneys-at-law\/sophia-sips\/\">Sophia Sips &#8211; Family Law Attorney<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-9bf895f6 gb-headline-text\">Family Law Attorney, International Family Law<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-quotes-block gb-element-b0365a51 testimonial-block\">\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"s-quote-card-icon gb-media-5cab658b testimonial-icon\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/quote.svg\" title=\"quote\">\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-text testimonial-text\"><em><em>Clients are guided by a dedicated lawyer who oversees the entire file and communicates discreetly.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"gb-text s-quote-card-author testimonial-author\">Mr. Carla Simmelink, lawyer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-be249d49 s-margin-vert-xl s-content-block\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-bfdf1120 gb-headline-text gbp-section__headline\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-1e85dbd5 gb-accordion\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d1310856 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-19f7b745 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-19f7b745\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I add a middle name without wanting to change a first name now?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-52e77243\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-52e77243\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-b299caa3 gb-headline-text\">Yes. It is possible to add a first name without changing existing first names. The same conditions apply: there must be a compelling reason and the legal proceedings take place through the court. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3600de9f gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-ba8b12fe gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-ba8b12fe\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Is adding a baptismal name easier than a full name change?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-54bea308\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-54bea308\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-784447a0 gb-headline-text\">Not necessarily. The legal proceedings are identical and require a compelling reason in both cases. In practice, a judge may rule slightly more leniently for an addition, but this depends on the circumstances of the case. A prior assessment provides more certainty.   <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d7e7a6c6 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-361ea87d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-361ea87d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\"><strong><strong><strong>What if my middle name contains a spelling error?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-c5948222\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-c5948222\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-51ced355 gb-headline-text\">A demonstrable spelling error in the birth certificate can constitute a compelling reason for a change. In some cases, correction can also be achieved through the civil registry if it concerns a clear clerical error. The appropriate route depends on the situation.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fc394c18 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-8dd43315 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-8dd43315\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Can I have multiple first names changed at the same time?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-d545942c\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-d545942c\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-c9e904f9 gb-headline-text\">Yes. It is possible to request multiple changes in a single petition. The judge assesses each part of the request separately for the presence of a compelling reason. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2769f6b3 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1983797d gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1983797d\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Do I have to go to court?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon\"><path d=\"M207.029 381.476L12.686 187.132c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941l22.667-22.667c9.357-9.357 24.522-9.375 33.901-.04L224 284.505l154.745-154.021c9.379-9.335 24.544-9.317 33.901.04l22.667 22.667c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941L240.971 381.476c-9.373 9.372-24.569 9.372-33.942 0z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"1em\" height=\"1em\" role=\"img\" class=\"gb-accordion__icon-open\"><path d=\"M240.971 130.524l194.343 194.343c9.373 9.373 9.373 24.569 0 33.941l-22.667 22.667c-9.357 9.357-24.522 9.375-33.901.04L224 227.495 69.255 381.516c-9.379 9.335-24.544 9.317-33.901-.04l-22.667-22.667c-9.373-9.373-9.373-24.569 0-33.941L207.03 130.525c9.372-9.373 24.568-9.373 33.941-.001z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-7c18bfac\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7c18bfac\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-ee70b14f gb-headline-text\">In most cases, no. Petitions for a name change are usually handled without an oral hearing. If the judge nevertheless deems a hearing necessary, your lawyer will assist you during the proceedings.  <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"gb-text s-content-block\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Trust_and_quality\"><\/span>Trust and quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Simmelink Lawyers is affiliated with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.advocatenorde.nl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Dutch Bar Association<\/a>.<br\/>Read more about our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/reviews\/\">reviews<\/a> or see how we work via our <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/\">working method<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ac26a6\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-34ce7bbc\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-7a1d0082\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"93\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-7a1d0082\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png\" alt=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" title=\"Logo of the Dutch Bar Association\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo-300x93.png 300w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/nederlandse-orde-van-advocaten-logo.png 340w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-7b78af02\">\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-cae6833a\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-cae6833a\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/RaadvRechtspraak.svg\" alt=\"\" title=\"RaadvJustice\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"gb-block-image gb-block-image-07670684\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"340\" height=\"105\" class=\"gb-image gb-image-07670684\" src=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png\" alt=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" title=\"Council for Legal Aid High Trust Logo\" srcset=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo.png 340w, https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/raad-voor-rechtsbijstand-high-trust-logo-300x93.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 340px) 100vw, 340px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>On this page In brief Changing or adding a middle name is a legal procedure based on Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code, in which the court, upon request, allows a first name to be changed, added, or removed from the birth certificate. When is changing or adding a middle name possible? The law &#8230; <a title=\"Middle name\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/tweede-voornaam\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about Middle name\">Lees meer<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":27868,"parent":24912,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":{"0":"post-36242","1":"page","2":"type-page","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"infinite-scroll-item","7":"resize-featured-image"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36242","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36242"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36242\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":36374,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36242\/revisions\/36374"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/24912"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27868"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36242"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}