Surname Choice for Partners in Den Haag
In Den Haag, partners can make a surname choice through the Municipality of Den Haag when entering into a marriage or registered partnership. This determines the family name you will both carry and often that of your children too. It offers considerable freedom but requires careful thought due to its lasting impact. Learn about the options and steps at the civil registry in Den Haag here.
Legal Basis of Surname Choice
The surname choice for partners is governed by Civil Code Book 1 (BW). Key provisions include:
- Article 1:10 BW: Governs family name choice upon marriage or registered partnership (GP).
- Article 1:11 BW: Regulates the surname for children during the marriage or GP.
- Article 1:12 BW: Provides option for adjustment after dissolution.
Since the 2018 family law reforms, name-giving has become more flexible. In the past, women often took their husband's name; now full equality applies.
Available Surname Choice Options in Den Haag
You make the choice together with the civil registry officer at the Municipality of Den Haag, before the ceremony. Four main options:
| Option | Description | Example (Hague) | Effect on Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Retain own surname | Both keep their own surname. | Pieter van der Laan and Sophie de Wit remain as they are. | Children receive the name of one parent or a combination (art. 1:11 BW). |
| 2. Adopt partner's surname | One partner adopts the other's surname. | Sophie de Wit becomes Sophie van der Laan. | Children automatically bear the shared surname. |
| 3. New joint surname | Both choose a fresh, shared surname. | Both now go by 'Scheveningen' (new or existing). | Children automatically receive this surname. |
| 4. Combination (pre/post) | Combine own surname with partner's. | Pieter becomes Pieter de Wit van der Laan; Sophie becomes Sophie van der Laan de Wit. | 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 to Surname Choice at Municipality of Den Haag
Here's how to proceed:
- Preparation: Discuss early and check requirements with the Municipality of Den Haag.
- Marriage/GP declaration: Schedule an appointment at the civil registry (at least 14 days before the date).
- Register the choice: Sign the 'Surname Choice Form' with the officer – this is binding.
- Post-ceremony actions: Update passports and documents at Den Haag city hall.
- Costs: Choice itself is free; new passport €70-€100 via Municipality of Den Haag.
For international couples: Additional information via Ministry of Justice and Security.
Hague Examples of Surname Choices
Example 1: Traditional Path
Lisa van Vliet (32) and Mark Bos (35) marry in Den Haag. Lisa takes 'Bos'. Children are named 'Bos'. Upon divorce, she can revert to 'Van Vliet' via District Court of Den Haag (art. 1:12 BW).
Example 2: Cultural Fusion
Achmed El Khattabi and Laura Jansen choose 'El Khattabi Jansen'. Ideal for multicultural Hague families; children bear this name.
Example 3: Professional Retention
Career-focused Hague residents like lawyers retain their own names for networking. Children decide later.
Rights and Obligations Regarding Surname Choice
Rights:
- Joint decision: No unilateral choice possible.
- Revision: Free within 3 months via Municipality of Den Haag; later via District Court of Den Haag (€300+).
- For children: Parents determine name at birth, aligned with the marriage.
Obligations:
- Implementation: Notify DUO, employer, bank, and Hague authorities of change.
- No confusion: Choice must be clear.
- Abroad: Double surnames can be problematic (e.g., in the US).
Read also: Name Change After Marriage for follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions on Surname Choice in Den Haag
Can I change my surname later?
Yes, free within 3 months at Municipality of Den Haag. Thereafter, via District Court of Den Haag with compelling reason (art. 1:12 BW). Costs: €528 court fee + lawyer.
What happens to surnames upon divorce?
Revert to former name or retain joint one. Children keep their name unless court intervenes.
Does this apply to registered partnerships?
Yes, same as marriage (art. 1:19 BW). No automatic change for cohabitation agreements.
What about children from previous relationships?
Upon recognition or custody, parents choose. Child often retains own name unless otherwise.
Tips for Den Haag Residents
- Plan ahead: Consider work, children, and possible relocation. Double surnames are trendy but paperwork-heavy.
- Expert help: For complex cases (foreign names), contact Legal Aid Office Den Haag or family law attorney.
- Document everything: Keep all papers for smooth updates with Hague services.