{"id":36371,"date":"2026-03-17T20:27:19","date_gmt":"2026-03-17T19:27:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/firstname-change\/genderidentiteit\/"},"modified":"2026-04-20T20:47:47","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T19:47:47","slug":"gender-identity","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/","title":{"rendered":"First name change for gender identity or transition"},"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\/gender-identity\/#Which_procedure_fits_your_situation\" >Which procedure fits your situation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#When_does_the_court_recognize_gender_identity_as_a_compelling_reason\" >When does the court recognize gender identity as a compelling reason?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#How_does_the_procedure_work_step-by-step\" >How does the procedure work step-by-step?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#First_name_change_for_minors_with_gender_incongruence\" >First name change for minors with gender incongruence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#What_does_a_first_name_change_for_gender_identity_cost\" >What does a first name change for gender identity cost?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#Which_documents_are_updated_automatically_and_which_ones_manually\" >Which documents are updated automatically and which ones manually?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#Based_on_Real_Cases\" >Based on Real Cases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#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-9\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#Our_Attorneys_at_Law\" >Our Attorneys at Law<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#Are_you_unsure_which_route_fits_your_situation\" >Are you unsure which route fits your situation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/#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>A first name change due to gender identity is a legal procedure in which the official first name in the Personal Records Database is changed to align with the petitioner&#8217;s experienced gender identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gender identity is recognized in the Netherlands as sufficient grounds for a first name change. No medical statement, psychologist, or treatment process is required. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There are two legal routes: via the court based on Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code, or via the civil registry simultaneously with a change of gender registration based on Article 28 of the Dutch Civil Code.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For the court route, a lawyer is mandatory. The procedure takes an average of up to six months. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The costs consist of a court fee of \u20ac341 and the Simmelink fee of \u20ac558, totaling \u20ac899. Costs are lower via the civil registry. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Minors from the age of eight can be heard by the judge regarding their wishes. For a gender change via the civil registry, a minimum age of sixteen applies. <\/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=\"Which_procedure_fits_your_situation\"><\/span>Which procedure fits your situation?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For Clients wishing to change their first name due to gender identity, two legal routes exist in the Netherlands. Which route is appropriate depends on whether you also wish to adjust your gender registration in addition to your first name. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Route A \u2013 First name change only, via the court<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you only want to change your first name and not your gender registration, the procedure goes through the court based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2023-07-01#Boek1_Titeldeel2_Artikel4\">Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>. This article stipulates that the court can grant a first name change for a compelling reason. Gender identity is structurally recognized by courts as a compelling reason, without requiring a medical statement. A lawyer is mandatory for this procedure.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Route B \u2013 First name and gender registration, via the civil registry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you want to change your gender registration simultaneously with your first name, this is done through the registrar of the civil registry in your place of birth based on <a href=\"https:\/\/wetten.overheid.nl\/BWBR0002656\/2023-07-01#Boek1_Titeldeel4_Afdeling13_Artikel28\">Article 28 of the Dutch Civil Code<\/a>. The first name can be changed in the same deed without the need for a separate court procedure. A lawyer is not mandatory for this route. A minimum age of sixteen applies for this route; minors under sixteen follow a separate procedure via the court.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which route applies to you?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You want to adjust only your first name and leave your gender registration unchanged: Route A, via the court with a lawyer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You want to adjust your first name and gender registration simultaneously: Route B, via the civil registry without a lawyer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your gender registration was changed previously and you now only want to change your first name: in most cases Route A, but have the exact route assessed per situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You want to apply for an X-registration (non-binary): the gender registration involves a separate petition procedure. Read more on our page about applying for an X in your passport. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The distinction between these routes determines whether a lawyer is necessary and what costs are associated with the procedure. Simmelink Lawyers provides no-obligation advice on which route fits your situation if you are in doubt. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_does_the_court_recognize_gender_identity_as_a_compelling_reason\"><\/span>When does the court recognize gender identity as a compelling reason?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In practice, the court structurally recognizes gender identity as a compelling reason under Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code. Medical steps, hormone therapy, or a psychological statement are not required. The judge primarily weighs whether the desired name is used consistently and whether the wish is lasting.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the assessment, courts generally take the following factors into account:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Consistent use of the new name in social, professional, or educational environments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Durability of the wish, as evidenced by self-identification and any statements from third parties.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Appropriateness of the proposed name. The court refuses names that are improper or confusing. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The petitioner&#8217;s interest in the name change, for example, in cases of misgendering in formal contexts or the psychological burden of a deadname.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In most cases, the petition is assessed in writing, without an oral hearing. The judge grants the change within six to eight weeks after the petition is filed, followed by a three-month appeal period. <\/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_does_the_procedure_work_step-by-step\"><\/span>How does the procedure work step-by-step?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The procedure description below refers to Route A, the first name change via the court based on Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code. For Route B, the civil registry guides you at the municipality itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 1. Intake and feasibility assessment <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a confidential intake meeting, Simmelink Lawyers discusses your situation, the desired name, and the substantiation. You will receive a concrete assessment of feasibility and a clear cost agreement. After registration, the secretariat will contact you within one business day.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 2. Collecting documents <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The following documents are required for the petition:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A recent copy of your birth certificate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A recent extract from the Personal Records Database (BRP).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A copy of your ID.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If available: statements from an employer, school, GP, or social environment showing that the desired name is already in use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 3. Drafting Petition<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The lawyer drafts the petition, including a legally precise substantiation explaining the compelling reason. The wording is neutral, respectful, and factual. The lawyer discusses the draft with you before it is filed.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 4. Filing with the court <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The petition is filed with the court in your place of residence. For Clients living abroad, the court in The Hague has jurisdiction, provided the birth certificate is registered there. Most petitions are handled in writing. If invited to a hearing, the lawyer will accompany you.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 5. Court order and appeal period <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After the request is granted, the lawyer receives a written court order. Following the three-month appeal period, the change is added as a later mention to the birth certificate and processed in the Personal Records Database. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step 6. Updating documents <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Authorities with access to the BRP, such as the Tax Authorities, UWV, health insurers, and pension funds, receive the change automatically. You must apply for a new passport or ID yourself at the municipality. Banks, associations, and employers must be informed separately.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"First_name_change_for_minors_with_gender_incongruence\"><\/span>First name change for minors with gender incongruence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Additional legal points of attention apply to minors. The petition is filed by the parent or parents with parental authority. Children from the age of eight can be invited by the judge to give their opinion. The court assesses the petition in light of the child&#8217;s best interests.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If one parent does not cooperate with the first name change, the judge can grant substitute consent upon request based on Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code. The substantiation then usually includes: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Statements from the educational institution regarding the use of the desired name.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Statements from healthcare providers, for example from a youth doctor, GP, or psychologist.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A description of the social transition and the durability of the wish.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A minimum age of sixteen applies for gender registration via the civil registry. Younger minors who wish to change their gender registration undergo a separate procedure via the court based on Article 28a of the Dutch Civil Code. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_a_first_name_change_for_gender_identity_cost\"><\/span>What does a first name change for gender identity cost?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Cost item<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Amount 2026<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Court fee<\/td><td>\u20ac341<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Simmelink lawyer fee (fixed)<\/td><td>\u20ac558<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total Route A (court)<\/td><td>\u20ac899<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Route B (civil registry, together with gender registration)<\/td><td>Varies per municipality; the first name is generally changed simultaneously on the same deed<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The fee for Route A is a fixed amount agreed upon in advance, without subsequent calculation. For detailed information on the cost breakdown, please refer to our page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/costs-first-name-change\/\">costs for changing first name<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The court procedure takes an average of six weeks to six months from filing, followed by a three-month appeal period before the change is definitively processed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_documents_are_updated_automatically_and_which_ones_manually\"><\/span>Which documents are updated automatically and which ones manually?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Automatically via BRP<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Update yourself<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tax Authorities<\/td><td>Bank<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>UWV<\/td><td>Insurance company<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Social Insurance Bank (SVB)<\/td><td>Employer and payroll administration<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Health insurer<\/td><td>GP, dentist, hospital<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pension fund<\/td><td>Associations and subscriptions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer (RDW)<\/td><td>Educational institutions<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The passport and identity card are not renewed automatically. You apply for these yourself at the municipality after the change has been processed in the BRP. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"s-content-block\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Based_on_Real_Cases\"><\/span>Based on Real Cases<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The examples below are anonymized and compiled from multiple files. The descriptions focus on the Client&#8217;s situation and the legal approach. Outcomes are not mentioned.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Adult Client with consistent name use<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An adult Client had been using a first name that aligned with their experienced gender identity for several years at school, work, and in their personal environment. Official documents structurally led to discomfort during identification. Simmelink Lawyers substantiated the petition with statements from the educational and work environment and referred to consistent name use as the core argument for a compelling reason.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Minor with misgendering at school<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A minor Client indicated feeling unsafe at school due to their deadname. Both parents with parental authority agreed to the name change. Simmelink Lawyers filed the petition with substantiation from healthcare and education, clearly explaining the social transition and the child&#8217;s best interests.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Client with non-cooperating parent<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the case of a minor Client, one of the two parents with parental authority did not agree to the first name change. Simmelink Lawyers combined the request for a first name change with a request for substitute consent based on Article 1:253a of the Dutch Civil Code, substantiated with statements from healthcare and education. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Combination of first name and gender registration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Client wanted to change both their first name and gender registration. After the intake meeting, Route B via the civil registry proved to be the appropriate procedure, without a lawyer. Simmelink Lawyers advised on the required expert statement and referred the Client to the municipality.  <\/p>\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&amp;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>In complex financial matters or an international component, a specialized lawyer is important.<br \/>We strive for legally correct, practically feasible agreements that give you predictability and peace of mind.<\/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\">Do I need a medical statement to change my first name?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">No. For a first name change based on gender identity, no medical statement, psychologist, or treatment process is required. The court assesses the petition based on a compelling reason, not on medical grounds.  <\/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\">Can I change my first name without adjusting my gender registration?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">Yes. Both procedures are legally separate. For a first name change only, the procedure goes through the court with a lawyer (Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code). <\/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>Is a lawyer always mandatory?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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 lawyer is mandatory for Route A, the court procedure. For Route B, the simultaneous change of first name and gender registration at the civil registry, a lawyer is not mandatory. <\/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\">Do I have to come to court?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">In most cases, no. Requests for a first name change are usually handled in writing. If invited to a hearing, the lawyer will accompany you.  <\/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\">How long does the procedure take?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/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\">The court generally decides within six weeks to six months after filing. After the court order, a three-month appeal period applies before the change is processed in the Personal Records Database. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-3508e987 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-a05a2a51 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-a05a2a51\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Which documents do I need?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-5b50c408\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5b50c408\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-a3afe79f gb-headline-text\">A recent copy of the birth certificate, an extract from the Personal Records Database, a copy of the ID, and, if available, statements from an employer, school, or social environment showing consistent name use.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8a20eb93 gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-6c074b25 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-6c074b25\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Does the procedure also apply to non-binary Clients?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-2347db1b\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2347db1b\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-65202103 gb-headline-text\">Yes. The court recognizes non-binary identity under the same Article 1:4 of the Dutch Civil Code basis. For an X-registration in the passport, a separate petition procedure is required. <\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2e396feb gb-accordion__item\" data-transition=\"slide\">\n\n<button class=\"gb-button gb-button-1d5c5757 gb-accordion__toggle\" id=\"gb-accordion-toggle-1d5c5757\"><span class=\"gb-button-text\">Where can I find the general explanation about first name changes?<\/span><span class=\"gb-icon\"><\/span><\/button>\n\n\n<div id=\"gb-accordion-content-2e18b25b\" class=\"gb-accordion__content\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-2e18b25b\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-fb31fa69 gb-headline-text\">The general explanation regarding the procedure, conditions, and costs for a first name change in all situations can be found on our hub page <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/\">change first name<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-cb1e0a1a wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio s-content-block\">\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-6cf425da\">\n\n<h2 class=\"gb-headline gb-headline-86766ebb gb-headline-text\" id=\"haalbaarheidscheck\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_you_unsure_which_route_fits_your_situation\"><\/span><strong>Are you unsure which route fits your situation?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-8f2b9fa5\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-wrapper gb-grid-wrapper-a2648578\">\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-0e01ddf0\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-0e01ddf0\">\n\n<p class=\"gb-text\">Simmelink Lawyers will discuss your situation without obligation via the feasibility check. You will receive an initial assessment from a specialized lawyer within one business day. An <a href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/our-approach\/advice\/\">advisory meeting<\/a> is also an option for complex situations.  <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gb-container gb-container-5c75afc0 s-btn-group\">\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-583dbcbd gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/forms\/first-name-change-feasibility-check\/?src=voornaam&amp;cta=bottom\">Request the feasibility check<\/a>\n\n\n\n<a class=\"gb-button gb-button-59caed52 gb-button-text s-btn-primary sim-button sim-button-action\" href=\"#plan-direct-uw-afspraak\">Schedule a meeting online yourself<\/a>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"gb-grid-column gb-grid-column-fee69c9d\"><div class=\"gb-container gb-container-fee69c9d\">\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=\"Voornaam wijzigen\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/MvpZTv3y_E4?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-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\/\/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 A first name change due to gender identity is a legal procedure in which the official first name in the Personal Records Database is changed to align with the petitioner&#8217;s experienced gender identity. Which procedure fits your situation? For Clients wishing to change their first name due to gender identity, &#8230; <a title=\"First name change for gender identity or transition\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/firstname-change\/gender-identity\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about First name change for gender identity or transition\">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-36371","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\/36371","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=36371"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36371\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37216,"href":"https:\/\/simmelink.nl\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36371\/revisions\/37216"}],"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=36371"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}