Choosing a first name

After a child’s birth, the parents may choose a first name themselves.
The first name may only be rejected if it:

• Is confusing
  For instance: a typical girl's name for a boy or vice versa
• Harms the child
  For instance: a ridiculous, absurd or offensive name
• May harm third parties
  For instance: an existing surname given to a child as a first name, if this is unusual

Choosing a surname

The surname is chosen in accordance with the legislation governing names of the child’s nationality.

Does your child have Belgian nationality?

When registering the birth of a Belgian child, you may choose one of the following surnames:

• Surname of the father or co-mother
• Surname of the mother
• A combination of those 2 surnames, the parents choose the order

In case the parents disagree on the choice of name, the child will get the double surname of both parents in alphabetical order.

The surname chosen for the first child will also apply to the next children born from the same parents.

Does your child have multiple nationalities?

The parents may opt for the legislation governing names of one of the child’s nationalities, instead of for the Belgian legislation, when registering the birth.

Changing your first name

How to request this?

You can change your first name at the municipality where your official residence is.
In Leuven, you need to go to the city office after making an appointment.

Make an appointment

Make an appointment online or by calling.

Online

Make an appointment

Call us

What do you need to bring?

Your identity card.

Price

Free of charge.

More information

You can find more information at FPS Justice.

Changing your surname

What is possible?

If you are an adult or a legally independent minor, you can change your surname once at the municipality where you officially live.

You can only choose:

• The surname of the parent whose name you do not have yet
• A combination of both parents’ surnames

Special rules apply for adoption.

Do you want a different change?
You can only do this if there is a serious reason. In that case, you must apply through the FPS Justice.

How to request this?

In Leuven, you need to go to the city office after making an appointment.

Make an appointment

You can make an appointment online or by calling.

Online

Make an appointment

Call us

What do you need to bring?

Your identity card.

Attention Do you have children older than 12 who have your surname?
They must come with you if they also want to change their name. The other parent or legal guardian must also be present.

Price

Free of charge.

More information

You can find more information at FPS Justice.