Surname Choice for Partners in Zoetermeer
In Zoetermeer, partners can make a surname choice when entering into marriage or a registered partnership via the Municipality of Zoetermeer. This determines the family name you will share and usually also that of future children. The choice offers a lot of flexibility, but consider its lasting impact carefully. Learn about the options and steps here, specifically for residents of Zoetermeer.
Legal Basis for Surname Choice
The surname choice for partners is governed by Civil Code Book 1 (CC). Key provisions include:
- Article 1:10 CC: Governs family name choice upon marriage or registered partnership (RP).
- Article 1:11 CC: Regulates the surname for children born during the marriage or RP.
- Article 1:12 CC: Provides options for changes after termination of the marriage or RP, via the District Court of Zoetermeer.
Since the family law update in 2018, name choices have become more flexible. Previously, women often took their husband's name; now partners choose on equal terms – ideal for Zoetermeer couples with diverse backgrounds.
Available Options for Surname Choice in Zoetermeer
You make the choice together with the civil registry officer at the Municipality of Zoetermeer, before the ceremony. Four options:
| Option | Explanation | Example | Consequences for Children |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Keep Own Name | Both retain their own surname. | Jan de Vries and Marie van Dijk remain as they are. | Children choose from a parental name or combination (art. 1:11 CC). |
| 2. Adopt Partner's Name | One partner adopts the other's surname. | Marie van Dijk becomes Marie de Vries. | Children typically receive the shared name. |
| 3. New Joint Name | Both adopt a fresh, shared surname (existing or new). | Both are now named Jansen. | Children automatically bear this name. |
| 4. Name Combination | Add your own name to your partner's, or vice versa. | Jan de Vries van Dijk; Marie van Dijk de Vries. | Children receive a matching variant. |
This applies by default to children born during the marriage or RP, unless otherwise agreed.
Procedure for Surname Choice in Zoetermeer
Here's how to proceed:
- Preparation: Discuss options early and check requirements with the Municipality of Zoetermeer or Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
- Declaration: Schedule an appointment at the civil registry of the Municipality of Zoetermeer (at least 14 days before the date).
- Register Choice: Sign the 'Family Name Choice' form with the officer – this is binding.
- Post-Ceremony Actions: Update passports and documents at the municipality.
- Costs: Choice itself is free; new passport €70-€100 at Municipality of Zoetermeer.
For international couples: Additional information via the Ministry of Justice and the Municipality of Zoetermeer.
Practical Examples from Zoetermeer
Example 1: Classic Switch
Anna Jansen (35, Zoetermeer) and Tom Bakker (38) marry locally. Anna becomes Bakker. Children are named Bakker. Upon divorce, she can revert to Jansen via the District Court of Zoetermeer (art. 1:12 CC).
Example 2: Cultural Double Name
Luca Rossi and Fatima El Amrani from Zoetermeer choose 'Rossi El Amrani'. Perfect for their multicultural family; children get the same name.
Example 3: Professional Retention
Zoetermeer lawyers or entrepreneurs keep their own names for networking. Children decide later.
Rights and Obligations
Rights:
- Joint decision: No unilateral choice.
- Revision: Free within 3 months via Municipality of Zoetermeer; later via District Court of Zoetermeer (€300+).
- For children: Parents select name at birth, aligned with the marriage.
Obligations:
- Notify everywhere: DUO, employer, banks.
- Avoid confusion: Choice must be clear.
- International: Double names may cause issues abroad.
More info: Name Change After Marriage.
Frequently Asked Questions on Surname Choice in Zoetermeer
Can I change my surname later?
Yes, free within 3 months at Municipality of Zoetermeer. Thereafter via District Court of Zoetermeer with compelling reasons (art. 1:12 CC). Costs: €528 + lawyer.
What happens upon divorce?
Revert to old name or retain. Children keep the name, unless court intervenes at District Court of Zoetermeer.
Does it apply to registered partnerships?
Yes, same as marriage (art. 1:19 CC). No automatic change for cohabitation agreements.
For children from previous relationships?
Upon recognition/guardianship, parents choose. Child retains name unless joint choice.
Tips for Couples in Zoetermeer
- Plan Ahead: Consider career, children, and relocation. Double names are trendy but paperwork-heavy.
- Seek Help: Complex case? Visit Het Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer or a family law attorney.
- Documents: Bring IDs and certificates to the Municipality of Zoetermeer.