

Changing First Name for Personal or Legal Reasons
Simmelink Advocaten provides personal and expert guidance at every step of the first name change process.
Your first name is an important part of your identity. Whether you are dealing with a spelling error, cultural reasons, or simply no longer feel comfortable with your first name, a name change can provide more self-confidence and a better sense of self-worth.
A name change involves many considerations. Careful guidance and discretion are essential to avoid unnecessary obstacles.
At Simmelink Advocaten, we provide personalized guidance at every step of the name change process. With our years of experience, we ensure a smooth procedure, from drafting the petition to handling the court proceedings.
With a success rate of 99.8%, you can trust that your name change will be handled with the utmost care and attention, allowing you to adopt your new name quickly and without worry.
What are the reasons for a first name change?
Do you not feel connected to your first name?
You do not identify with your first name or experience discomfort in your personal and professional life.
Would you like to honor a loved one?
You wish to add a name in memory of a special family member or close acquaintance.
Has your first name caused psychological distress?
Your first name evokes unpleasant memories or has led to bullying.
Does your first name have a cultural mismatch?
Your foreign name does not fit well in the Dutch language or culture.
Are you considering a name change following a gender transition or X-status?
Your name does not align with your new identity.
Was there an error made in your birth registration?
There is a spelling error or incorrect first name provided at birth.
Does your first name not align with your religious beliefs?
You have adopted a faith that does not align with your current name.
Are you considering a name change after adoption?
Your first name no longer aligns with your new identity after adoption.
Is your first name not compatible with your (future) last name?
You are getting married or changing your last name, and your first name is not appropriate.
Is there an error in official documents?
Your first name has been incorrectly registered in important documents.
Do you wish to change your name for legal or medical reasons?
You require a new name following a legal or medical situation, such as witness protection or gender-affirming surgeries.
What is the cost of changing a first name?
The costs for a first name change consist of attorney fees and court fees, totaling €1,250. At Simmelink Advocaten, the attorney fees amount to €919 including VAT, excluding the court fee of €331. This court fee is a nationwide fixed amount applicable to all petitions submitted to the court. For this amount, we provide you with personal guidance throughout the entire process, draft the necessary legal documents, and ensure a smooth handling of the procedure at the court.
For a comprehensive overview of the costs, you can visit our dedicated page on name change costs.
What is the cost of changing one letter in the first name?
The cost for changing one letter in a first name change is €1,250, the same as for changing the entire first name. Dutch law considers any alteration of your first name, even if it involves just one letter, as a complete legal procedure.
Read our page for changing one letter in the first name.


Would you like to learn more about changing your first name?

“Thanks to the feasibility check, I quickly knew that my first name change was possible!” – Mark J.
99,8%
99.8% of visitors who used our feasibility check received a favorable court decision for their first name change.
Response within 1 business day
You will receive a response within one business day. Your inquiry is completely confidential, and we will handle your privacy with the utmost care.
What are the steps to change a first name?
A first name change is processed through a petition submitted to the court by a lawyer. In the Netherlands, a lawyer is required for the procedure to change a first name. You must provide a valid reason, such as a spelling error, personal preference, or religious belief. The court will then assess whether the change is approved.
The steps to change your first name are:
- Initial Consultation: discuss your reasons and receive legal advice.
- Drafting the petition: your attorney prepares the official document.
- Filing with the court. The request is submitted for review.
- Court Review: the judge evaluates your application.
- Change in official registers: after approval, your new name will be registered.
- Your new first name is now official.
The application procedure for a first name change is depicted in the image below. This way, you will know exactly what to expect from us and at what stage the first name change procedure is.

Intake interview
The intake interview is non-binding and free of charge. We will discuss your reason for wanting to change your first name.
To save travel time and costs, the introductory meeting can be conducted by phone, email, or video call. In this way, you can save travel time and costs. Of course, you are also welcome at our office in Maarssen (Utrecht).
Drafting the petition
We prepare the petition that includes the rationale for the requested change. This may be a change, addition, or deletion of one or more first names.
Then, we send the petition to you in draft form for additions or changes. It is important to ensure that the desired first name is written flawlessly and that all reasoning is worded correctly.
Filing with the court
After you approve the petition, we will submit it to the court.
A recent copy of your birth certificate, not older than three months, shall be attached to the petition. If you were born abroad, an original birth certificate will suffice. If the birth certificate has not been converted to a Dutch certificate, this can be requested from the court in the same first name change procedure. You can also choose to do this yourself at The Hague municipality. For more information, see the Hague City Council website. If you do not have a birth certificate or cannot obtain one due to an inability to return to your native country, a replacement birth certificate may be requested alongside a request for a first name change.
Assessment by court
The court evaluates whether the request meets the requirements and is based on sound reasoning.
The pronouncement of a first name change is usually in writing, without a hearing. This means that you do not need to appear in court for an oral hearing.
With this, the assignment of the new first name is not yet official. First, the statutory three-month period to appeal must be observed. After three months, the decision becomes final, which is important for applying for new identification documents.
Changing birth certificate and updating BRP
After the statutory three-month period has passed, the court sends the ruling to the municipality where your birth certificate is located. If you were born abroad, the ruling will be sent to the municipality of The Hague.
Next, the registrar adds the record of the changed first name behind the original birth certificate and for people living in the Netherlands, enters the changes in the Basic Registration of Persons (BRP). Government organizations connected to the BRP receive the changes automatically. Your bank, insurance company, and other agencies, such as your workplace and sports club, will require an update from you.
Your first name is officially changed once it is added to your birth certificate by the municipality.
The new first name is official.
With the registration of your new first name, it is officially established. You have successfully changed your first name as desired.
Would you like to learn more about changing your first name?
To prepare a petition for a first name change, you need a lawyer.
Adding, changing, or deleting one or more first names requires a court order. For the first name change, you will need a lawyer. On your behalf, the lawyer may petition the court to add, change, or remove one or more first names.
Based on the petition, the judge makes a decision on whether there is a valid reason to change the first name. For the judge, your motivation for changing your first name is very important. Therefore, it is important that your lawyer carefully articulate your reasons and present the appropriate argument.
What documents are required for a first name change?
- Your BSN and a copy of your passport.
- A recent certified copy of the birth certificate (not older than three months), to be requested from your municipality of birth.
- Any supporting evidence for your request.
- For minors: if one parent submits the request, a statement from the other parent (with custody) consenting to the request, or an explanation as to why this statement is missing.
Would you like to learn more about changing your first name?
How long does the first name change procedure take?
A first name change takes an average of 2 to 6 months. The court usually rules within 2 months, after which the change becomes final within 3 months. The new first name is then entered in the municipal registers within a month.
See the step-by-step plan for the duration of the first name change.
Note: The duration of the procedure may be affected if no Dutch birth certificate is available. In such cases, such as a foreign birth certificate, the procedure may take longer. The foreign certificate must then be converted, or a replacement birth certificate can be requested.
Would you like to learn more about changing your first name?
Completing it takes less than 2 minutes.

“Thanks to the feasibility check, I quickly knew that changing my first name was possible!” – Mark J.
99.8% successful
99.8% of visitors who used our feasibility check received a favorable court decision for their first name change.
Response within 1 business day
You will receive a response within one business day. Your inquiry is completely confidential, and we will handle your privacy with the utmost care.
Why Simmelink Advocaten?
With a success rate of 99.8% and hundreds of successful name changes, we are the specialists in this field. With us, you receive personal guidance, transparent communication, and a meticulous approach. We ensure that your first name becomes a source of pride, without any surprises in costs or procedure.
- Prompt Processing:
We can submit your request to the court within two weeks. - Specialized Expertise:
Our attorneys are specialized in name law with over 10 years of experience. - Free Initial Consultation:
Contact us for a free and non-binding introductory meeting. - Request a free feasibility check now and receive a response regarding your options within one business day.
We believe that everyone has the right to a first name that suits them and that they can be proud of.
At Simmelink Lawyers, you will be guided step-by-step through the process of changing your first name.
A First Name that Suits You
At Simmelink Law Firm, we understand how important it is to have a first name that truly suits you. A name that does not suit you can cause discomfort in both your personal and professional life.
With years of experience in name changes, Simmelink Law Firm has a proven track record. Our specialized lawyers offer not only legal support but also empathy and understanding of your unique situation. We are known for our thorough and personalized approach, making us a reliable partner in supporting a first name change.
We ensure that your first name becomes a source of pride and confidence, allowing you to be fully yourself in all aspects of your life.
Client Experiences

Simmelink Advocaten distinguishes itself through expertise and thorough knowledge. My case was handled correctly without any unexpected costs, which they had accurately estimated in advance.

Excellent law firm! The team is very friendly, communication is clear, and commitments are always kept. I highly recommend this firm for legal support.

The resolution of my alimony calculation by Simmelink was swift and efficient, and I am very pleased with the result. They are approachable and have extensive knowledge.

Law firm Simmelink is very professional and client-oriented. They understand the client’s needs and go out of their way to help. Rarely do you see a company where the customer is as central as at Simmelink.
Benefits of First Name Change with Simmelink Advocaten
You will receive advice from legal experts, leading to better outcomes in your case. You can make legal decisions with confidence, knowing you have the best possible support.
We guide you every step of the way in changing your first name.
You are warmly invited for an initial, no-obligation consultation at our office in Maarssen – Utrecht, or by appointment via video calling. No matter where you live, whether in the Netherlands or abroad, we always guarantee quality and personal contact.
You know exactly where you stand, which allows us to reduce stress and uncertainty for you. Through our integrity and discretion, we ensure that your sensitive personal information remains secure, allowing you to move forward with peace of mind. We handle your privacy and confidential information with care.
We have achieved great success with requested first name changes due to a thorough approach and years of experience. At this moment, all name change requests submitted through our process have been approved.
Are you considering changing your first name?
Receive our free guide now with everything you need to know about changing your first name.
Valid reasons for a name change
Step-by-step explanation of the procedure
Understanding the timeline and costs
Click below to download the e-book and take the first step towards a name that truly suits you.
Download the e-book
FAQ: Most Frequently Asked Questions About a First Name Change
Here you will find frequently asked questions from clients about first name changes.
The average time for changing first names is between two and six months. It varies depending on the court where your request is heard.
At Simmelink Lawyers, we have developed considerable expertise over the years in assisting clients with changing their first names.
We observe that the desire to change a name often arises from personal reasons. Many of our clients have experienced that their given name does not align with their identity, which can lead to discomfort and even psychological stress in daily life. This ranges from experiencing teasing or bullying to a strong personal preference for a different name. In some cases, clients have a desire to add or remove a middle name.
Our experience at Simmelink Lawyers demonstrates that our success rate for name changes is high, owing to our expert guidance and comprehensive understanding of legal procedures. We have assisted numerous clients in successfully changing their first names, consistently resulting in satisfied clients who appreciate our smooth and transparent process.
Many people want to change their first name, and at Simmelink Lawyers, we can help. We have extensive experience and are ready to guide you through every step of this important process.
The change of a first name consists of 6 steps:
- Intake interview
- Drafting Petition
- Petition to Court
- Judge’s assessment
- Change in marital status
- You have a new first name.
Yes, it is possible to change the name on your old diplomas. Below are the steps to follow:
- Application at DUO
For diplomas issued by Dutch educational institutions, you can apply for a replacement diploma at the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs ( DUO). They offer support in the process of changing the name on your diplomas. You can contact DUO for detailed information about the procedure and any required documentation. - Contact your educational institution
If your degree was issued by a specific educational institution, you should contact that institution directly. Inquire about their specific policies and procedures for changing names on diplomas. They can provide you with the necessary forms and guide you through the process.
Important to know
- Possible Costs
Please remember that there may be costs associated with changing the name on your diplomas. - Necessary documents
Ensure you have all necessary documents on hand, such as a valid ID and, if applicable, official documents confirming the name change.
If you were born abroad and you live in the Netherlands, in many cases it is possible to have your first name changed.
Your request to change your first name is sent to the court in The Hague. If the judge rules in favor, the written ruling will be sent to the municipality of The Hague. Then the birth certificate is updated and the change is final.
In case your birth certificate has not yet been registered at the Hague Civil Registry, this will first have to be done by you yourself or you can apply to the court in the first name change procedure.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
In the Netherlands, you can choose your own first name. There is no mandatory list of names. The two main conditions for changing one’s first name are:
– the first name change must have a sufficiently compelling interest.
– the new first name must not be an inappropriate name or existing surname, unless it is a common first name.
For example, a person can bear the first name “Mensje.” The first name “Woman” is not allowed because it is a description of a capacity.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
To change your first name, you must be at least 18 years old. However, it is also possible for minors to request a first name change. Only the parent or guardian with joint or parental authority can make the request.
It is also possible to add or delete one or more first names.
In accordance with Article 1:4 of the Civil Code, the court may, upon the request of the individual seeking to change their first name or at the request of their legal representative, amend a first name.
However, it is also possible for a minor to apply for a first name change. Only the legal representative, such as the parent with parental authority or guardian with joint custody, can make the request.
It is also possible to add or delete one or more first names.
In accordance with Article 1:4 of the Civil Code, the court may, upon the request of the individual seeking to change their first name or at the request of their legal representative, amend a first name.
Would you like to change your first name as a transgender person? With us, you have come to the right place. We are one of the pioneers in the Netherlands in this field.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
It is possible to change your surname or last name. The process of changing a last name is handled by Justis, the screening authority of the Ministry of Justice and Security in matters of integrity. The request for a name change follows Justis’s application procedure. You are not required to hire a lawyer if you wish to change your last name.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
Simmelink Lawyers is the pioneer in obtaining x-status. We know exactly what it takes in the process of obtaining x-status. Given that a gender-neutral status often aligns more appropriately with a different first name than the current one, we combine the application for x-status with a request to change the first name.
By the way, even if you live abroad as a Dutch citizen, you can ask the Dutch court to change your first name.
When it comes to choosing first names, there is no mandatory list in the Netherlands.
You have the freedom to select a first name of your choice. However, two restrictions are established by law:
1. The first name chosen must not be inappropriate or offensive.
2. It is not permitted to use an existing last name as a first name unless that first name is used frequently.
To ensure that the desired first name meets the legal requirements, you can ask us for free advice on whether the first name change is possible.
No, physical presence in the Netherlands is not required to change your first name according to Dutch law. We have the option of video calling. This means you can take the following steps without having to come to our office:
- Making an appointment
You will make an appointment for a video call. During this interview, we will provide all the necessary information and answer your questions. - Submit documents digitally
All required documents for the first name change can be submitted digitally. - Online support
We will support you every step of the way, and you can always contact us if you have any questions.
In a situation where your birth certificate is not recorded in the Dutch civil registry, it is necessary to obtain an official copy of your foreign birth certificate. This copy must be legalized and translated by a licensed certified translator. You can apply for this birth certificate in the country where you were born. Once the deed is legalized and translated, it will be recognized in the Netherlands, allowing you to begin the process of changing your first name.
Feasibility Check to Change First Name
We are available from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at the phone number +31 (0)30 – 3078732.