Choosing a given name for your child

As parents, you can choose which surname your first (Dutch) child will receive. Your name or the name of your partner and from 2024 you can also choose a combination of both names (double surname). You make this choice before the birth or at the time of the birth registration. You will need to make an appointment.

Making an appointment

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There are various choices

You can choose the surname of your first child only. And if you subsequently have more children from the same relationship? In that case, they will be given the same surname as your first child. There are several options when choosing the surname:

You are married or in a registered partnership

The child takes the father’s or co-mother’s surname.
Do you want the child to have the surname of the mother or a double surname? If so, the name must be chosen before the birth or at the time of the birth declaration. For that purpose you make a declaration together at the civil registry. Make an appointment for this and bring your identification documents.

You are not married

The child is given the mother’s surname.
Do you want the child to have the surname of the co-mother or a double surname? In that case, the father must acknowledge the child. Acknowledgment can take place before the birth or after the birth of the child. You can choose your surname when you are recognized, so you come together and bring your identification documents.

Your child was born abroad

For more information, contact the City of Leeuwarden.

Double surname child

Since 1 January 2024, it has also been possible to opt for a double surname for your child. More information is provided on the website of the Rijksoverheid.