Name Change in Denmark (2026 Legal Guide) — Rules & Requirements
About this article
Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Danish Names Act governs first names, middle names and surnames:
- Free choice of surname on marriage: Each spouse can take the other's surname, keep their own, or use a hyphenated combination.
- Ordinary name change: You can change your first name or surname via Familieretshuset — some changes happen automatically (e.g. taking your spouse's name), others require approval.
- Protected surnames: Surnames borne by fewer than 2,000 people in Denmark are protected — you cannot take them without a family connection.
- Children's names: Parents must register the child's name within 6 months of birth. First names must be on the approved name list or approved individually.
When does it apply?
- You are getting married or divorced and want to change your name.
- You want to change your first name, middle name or surname for another reason.
- You need to name a newborn.
What to do if you want to change your own or your child's name in Denmark
- Apply via Familieretshuset or the national church if it concerns a birth registration.
- For name changes connected to marriage, the change can be handled as part of the marriage or divorce process.
- If you want an unusual first name, check whether it is on the list of approved names — if not, you must apply for individual approval.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't miss the 6-month deadline for naming a newborn — the national church or the municipality follows up.
- Don't assume any name is available — protected surnames and unapproved first names require special permission.
- Don't use a new name in official documents before it is registered — the change only takes effect from the registration date.
About Family Law in Denmark
Most family-law cases in Denmark start at Familieretshuset (the Agency of Family Law), the central authority that since 2019 has handled divorce, custody, child support and paternity. You can be divorced administratively if you agree, or via the family court if you do not. Couples with children under 18 go through a 3-month reflection period. Forældreansvarsloven (the Parental Responsibility Act) treats joint custody as the default and applies the best interests of the child; children from age 10 have the right to be heard. Domestic violence is handled through restraining orders and the rules of the Criminal Code.
Common Questions
How do I change my name in Denmark?
Apply via Familieretshuset under the Names Act, or via the national church if it concerns a birth registration. Some changes happen automatically — such as taking your spouse's surname on marriage — while others require approval. For name changes connected to marriage or divorce, the change can be handled as part of the overall case.
Can I choose any surname in Denmark?
No. Surnames borne by fewer than 2,000 people in Denmark are protected — you cannot take them without a family connection. On marriage, each spouse can take the other's surname, keep their own, or use a hyphenated combination. If you want an unusual first name, check the list of approved names; if it is not there, you must apply for individual approval.
How long do I have to name my child in Denmark?
You must register the child's name within 6 months of birth. The national church or the municipality follows up if you miss the deadline. First names must be on the list of approved names or approved individually. A name change only takes effect from the registration date — don't use a new name in official documents before then.
What is the name change right in Denmark?
The Danish Names Act governs first names, middle names and surnames:Free choice of surname on marriage: Each spouse can take the other's surname, keep their own, or use a hyphenated combination.Ordinary name change: You can change your first name or surname via Familieretshuset — some changes happen automatically (e.g. taking your spouse's name), others require approval.Protected surnames: Surnames borne by fewer than 2,000 people in Denmark are protected — you cannot take them without a family connection.Children's names: Parents must register the child's name within 6 months of birth. First...
When does it apply — name change?
You are getting married or divorced and want to change your name.You want to change your first name, middle name or surname for another reason.You need to name a newborn.
What do I do if I want to legally change my first name or surname in Denmark?
Apply via Familieretshuset or the national church if it concerns a birth registration.For name changes connected to marriage, the change can be handled as part of the marriage or divorce process.If you want an unusual first name, check whether it is on the list of approved names — if not, you must apply for individual approval.
What should you NOT do — name change?
Don't miss the 6-month deadline for naming a newborn — the national church or the municipality follows up.Don't assume any name is available — protected surnames and unapproved first names require special permission.Don't use a new name in official documents before it is registered — the change only takes effect from the registration date.