Guide to Legally Changing Your Family Name: Steps and Requirements

Table of Contents

Description

What is it?

Changing your family name is a legal process, that allows you to alter your existing surname to a new one for personal or professional reasons.

Who needs it?

Primarily, individuals who are married and want to take on their spouse’s surname, or those who wish to change their names for personal, cultural or professional reasons.

Procedure

  1. Obtain and complete the application form for a change of name from the local government office or download it from their official website.
  2. Gather all required documents including birth certificates, identification, and relevant proof supporting the name change.
  3. Submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the local government office.
  4. Pay the necessary administrative fees.
  5. Wait for the approval of your application. The duration can vary depending on individual cases and the local laws.
  6. Once approved, collect your new identification documents like ID cards, passport, etc. in your new name.

Required Documents

  • Application form
  • Original birth certificate
  • Valid identification document (ID card, passport)
  • Proof supporting the name change (marriage certificate, court order etc.)

Providers that can do it for you

(We are currently curating the best providers. If you are or know a provider, please contact us or edit the page directly)

ProviderWebsiteTimelinesCost

Additional details

  • Reasons for name change can vary widely – from wanting to take on a spouse’s name, to disliking one’s current name, or seeking to take on a name that resonates with personal, cultural or professional identities.
  • The procedure and requirements may slightly vary depending on the exact local laws and the specific circumstances of the individual.
  • It’s advisable to update your new name in all personal and legal documents such as bank accounts, property deeds, wills, etc.
  • The service provider might be the local government’s office responsible for name change procedures in the given country, in this case, Hungary.

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