Surname Choice for Partners in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, partners can make a surname choice when entering into a marriage or registered partnership. This determines the family name you will both carry and usually also that of your children. The option offers considerable freedom but requires careful preparation due to its lasting impact. Learn about the options and steps here, specifically for Rotterdam residents via the Municipality of Rotterdam.
Legal Rules for Surname Choice
The surname choice for partners is governed by Civil Code Book 1 (BW). Relevant provisions include:
- Article 1:10 BW: Governs surname choice upon marriage or registered partnership (GP).
- Article 1:11 BW: Regulates children's surname during the marriage or GP.
- Article 1:12 BW: Provides option for change after termination of the marriage or GP.
Since the family law update in 2018, there is greater freedom of choice. Previously, women often took their husband's name, but now equality applies to all Rotterdam residents.
Options for Surname Choice in Rotterdam
You make the choice together with the civil registrar of the Municipality of Rotterdam, before the ceremony. Four main variants:
| Option | Description | Example | Impact on Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Retain own name | Each partner keeps their own surname. | Jan de Vries and Marie van Dijk from Rotterdam remain as they are. | Children receive the name of one parent or a combination (art. 1:11 BW). |
| 2. Adopt partner's name | One partner adopts the other's surname. | Marie van Dijk becomes Marie de Vries. | Children automatically bear the shared name. |
| 3. New joint name | Both adopt a new shared surname (existing or invented). | Both are henceforth called Jansen. | Children automatically receive this name. |
| 4. Combination (pre/post) | Personal name plus partner's name, in any order. | Jan de Vries van Dijk; Marie van Dijk de Vries. | Children choose from the options. |
This choice applies by default to children born during the marriage or GP, unless otherwise agreed.
Step-by-Step Guide for Surname Choice in Rotterdam
Here's how to proceed:
- Prepare: Discuss options well in advance. Check requirements with the Municipality of Rotterdam.
- Marriage/GP declaration: Schedule an appointment at the civil registry of the Municipality of Rotterdam (at least 14 days ahead).
- Register choice: Sign the 'Family Name Choice' form with the registrar – this is final.
- Post-ceremony actions: Update passports and documents.
- Costs: The choice itself is free; new passport from the Municipality of Rotterdam €70-€100.
For international couples in Rotterdam: additional information via the Ministry of Justice.
Rotterdam Examples of Surname Choice
Example 1: Classic switch
Anna Jansen (35, Rotterdam-West) and Tom Bakker (38, Feijenoord) get married. Anna takes 'Bakker'. Children become Bakker. Upon divorce, she can revert to Jansen via the District Court of Rotterdam (art. 1:12 BW).
Example 2: Cultural double name
Luca Rossi and Fatima El Amrani from Rotterdam-South choose 'Rossi El Amrani'. Ideal for diverse families in the port city. Children inherit this name.
Example 3: Professional retention
Career-focused Rotterdam residents, such as lawyers at local firms, retain their own names for networking. Children decide later.
Rights and Obligations Regarding Surname Choice
Rights:
- Joint decision: No unilateral choice.
- Revision: Free within 3 months via Municipality of Rotterdam; later via District Court of Rotterdam (€300+).
- For children: Parents determine name at birth, aligned with the marriage.
Obligations:
- Implement name everywhere: With DUO, employer, bank, and Municipality of Rotterdam.
- No confusion: Choice must be clear.
- Abroad: Double names may not work everywhere (check US rules).
Read also: Name Change After Marriage for follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions about Surname Choice in Rotterdam
Can I change my surname later?
Yes, free within 3 months at the Municipality of Rotterdam. Thereafter via District Court of Rotterdam with compelling interest (art. 1:12 BW). Costs: €528 + lawyer.
What about surname upon divorce?
Revert to previous name or retain it. Children keep the name unless the District Court of Rotterdam intervenes.
Does this apply to registered partnerships?
Yes, same as marriage (art. 1:19 BW). No automatic change upon cohabitation.
What about children from previous relationships?
Upon acknowledgment, parents choose. Child retains their name unless otherwise agreed.
Tips for Rotterdam Residents
- Think ahead: Consider career, children, and relocation. Double names are trendy but paperwork-heavy.
- Expert advice: For complex cases (foreign backgrounds), contact Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or a family law attorney.
- Document everything: Keep all paperwork for the Municipality of Rotterdam and District Court of Rotterdam.