The decision to change your name is a significant step and can become necessary for a variety of reasons - be it through marriage, divorce, adoption or for personal reasons. However, a name change often involves a number of bureaucratic hurdles, especially if official documents are available in several languages. In this blog article, you can find out everything you need to know about changing your name and the associated certified translation.
Why change the name?
There are many reasons why someone might want or need to change their name:
- Marriage or divorce: People often change their surname after a marriage or divorce.
- Adoption: Adopted children often take the surname of their adoptive parents.
- Gender reassignment: People undergoing gender reassignment often change their name to reflect their new identity.
- Personal reasons: Sometimes people wish to change their name for various personal or cultural reasons.
The legal basis
Changing your name in Germany is subject to strict legal regulations. The German Name Change Act (NamÄndG) and the German Civil Code (BGB) provide the framework conditions. The following steps are usually necessary:
- Application: An application for a name change must be submitted to the competent authority, usually the registry office.
- Justification: The application must be well justified, especially in the case of a change for personal reasons.
- Examination: The authority examines the application and the justification.
- Decision: After the examination, a decision is made on the application. If the decision is positive, the name change is entered in the civil status register.
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Certified translation: When is it necessary?
A certified translation is required if official documents proving a name change are available in another language. This is particularly the case for
- International marriages or divorces: If a marriage or divorce has taken place abroad and the documents are in a foreign language.
- Adoptions abroad: In the case of adoptions abroad, the relevant documents often have to be translated and notarized.
- Foreign birth certificates: If the birth certificate is in another language and must be presented for the name change.
What is a certified translation?
A certified translation is a translation that has been prepared by a sworn or certified translator. These translators are specially qualified and authorized to prepare translations of documents that can be used in court or by authorities. A certified translation is stamped and signed by the translator to confirm the accuracy and completeness of the translation.
Step-by-step guide to ordering a certified translation
- Select document type: Select your document type from the menu.
- Select language combination: In this step, you select your source and target language.
- Scan documents: Scan your name change that you would like to have translated.
- Check number of pages: Enter the number of pages to be translated.
- Complete the order: You will receive the certified translation by post and digitally.
Tips and hints
- Plan early: A name change and the associated certified translation can take time. So plan early.
- Document security: Make sure that you always make copies of your original documents and certified translations and keep them safe.
- Updates: Inform all relevant parties of your name change, including banks, insurance companies, employers and other important institutions.
Conclusion
A name change is a significant step that should be well thought out and prepared for. The certified translation of documents plays a central role in this, especially when international documents are involved. At Beglaubigung24 you will find professional support to make this process smooth and stress-free.
