Name Change: appeal a rejection
Changing your name
The first paragraph of Article 30 of the Swiss Civil Code (ZGB) states that a person may be granted permission to change their name – including their first name – if there are valid reasons for doing so. For example, if your first name or family name is disadvantageous to you, you can have it changed. To do this, you must submit an application.
In such situations, you can apply for a name change and must submit your application to the authorities in your canton of residence. If you are abroad, please submit your request to the nearest Swiss representation.
In principle, the following documents must be submitted:
Application for a change of name, with a detailed justification. This must explain the disadvantages associated with the previous name. The mere intention to change the name is not sufficient. The reasons must be understandable, comprehensible (e.g. with supporting documents) and convincing. Alleged facts must also be substantiated and not merely made credible. The reasons given must not be unlawful, abusive or immoral.
Persons of legal age: an extract from the debt enforcement and criminal register (original).
Swiss citizens: civil status documents of the persons affected by the name change (available from the civil status office of the place of origin, not older than 6 months).
For foreign nationals: Passport and foreigner’s identity card as well as birth certificate (extract from the birth register) of the persons affected by the name change (original).
Family booklet or family identity card, if available.
Documents that are not in German will require a certified German translation.
Depending on the specific situation, it is possible that further documents may be required.
