Surname Choice for Partners in Leiden
In Leiden, partners can make a surname choice through the Municipality of Leiden when entering into a marriage or registered partnership. This determines the family name for the couple and often for their children as well. The choice offers considerable freedom but requires careful consideration due to its lifelong impact. Read on for the options and steps specific to residents of Leiden.
Legal Rules for Surname Choice
The surname choice for partners is governed by the Civil Code Book 1 (CC). Relevant articles:
- Article 1:10 CC: Determines the family name upon marriage or registered partnership (RP).
- Article 1:11 CC: Regulates children's surnames during the marriage or RP.
- Article 1:12 CC: Provides option for change after termination.
Since the family law update in 2018, there is greater equality; previously, women often took their husband's name, but now partners choose freely.
Options for Surname Choice in Leiden
Partners formalize their choice with the civil registry officer at the Municipality of Leiden before the ceremony. Four options:
| Option | Description | Example | Impact on Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Keep Own Name | Each partner retains their own surname. | Jan de Vries and Marie van Dijk remain as they are. | Children choose from parental name or combination (art. 1:11 CC). |
| 2. Adopt Partner's Name | One partner takes the other's surname. | Marie van Dijk becomes Marie de Vries. | Children typically receive the shared name. |
| 3. New Joint Name | Both adopt an existing or new name. | Both become Jansen. | Children automatically bear this name. |
| 4. Name Combination | Name before or after own name. | Jan: Van Dijk de Vries; Marie: De Vries van Dijk. | Children receive a matching variant. |
The choice applies by default to children born during the marriage or RP.
Step-by-Step Guide for Surname Choice in Leiden
Here's how to do it:
- Prepare: Discuss preferences and check requirements with the Municipality of Leiden.
- Declaration: Schedule an appointment at the civil registry of the Municipality of Leiden (at least 14 days in advance).
- Complete Form: Formally record the 'Family Name Choice' with the officer.
- Implementation: Update passports and documents after the ceremony.
- Costs: Choice is free; new passport €70-€100.
For marriages with international aspects: additional information via Justis.
Examples of Surname Choice in Leiden
Example 1: Traditional
Anna Jansen (35) and Tom Bakker (38) marry in Leiden. Anna takes 'Bakker'; children too. Upon divorce, reversion possible via District Court of Leiden (art. 1:12 CC).
Example 2: Cultural Double Name
Luca Rossi and Fatima El Amrani choose 'Rossi El Amrani' at the Municipality of Leiden. Ideal for diverse Leiden families.
Example 3: Professional Retention
Leiden lawyers or academics keep their own name for networking; children decide later.
Rights and Obligations
Rights:
- Joint decision required.
- Revision: Free within 3 months at Municipality of Leiden; later via District Court of Leiden (€300+).
- Children: Name choice aligned with parents.
Obligations:
- Notify name change everywhere: DUO, bank, employer.
- No confusing choices.
- Watch for abroad: Double names not recognized everywhere.
Related: Name Change After Marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions on Surname Choice in Leiden
Can I change my name later?
Yes, free within 3 months at Municipality of Leiden. Thereafter via District Court of Leiden with compelling reason (art. 1:12 CC). Costs: €528 + lawyer.
Name upon divorce?
Revert to former or keep new. Children retain name unless court intervenes.
Registered Partnership?
Yes, same rules (art. 1:19 CC). No automatic change for cohabitation.
Children from Previous Relationships?
Upon recognition, parents choose; child keeps name unless otherwise.
Tips for Leiden Residents
- Think Ahead: Consider career, children, and relocation. Double names practical but administratively intensive.
- Seek Help: If in doubt, contact the Legal Aid Office in Leiden or local family law attorney.
- Document: Keep all papers for Municipality of Leiden and authorities.