Processing times

Changing forename and surname

• The name change service may resolve your application automatically, if you are applying for your own previous surname or common first names for yourself. In this case, the processing time is less than a day.
• In other cases, the processing time is approximately 10–12 weeks. The processing time depends on how quickly you pay the application fee.
• If we need any supplements from you or a statement from the Names Board, the processing time may be 2–6 months.

Changing surname upon marriage 

Explore the options on the Surname upon marriage page, and if needed, ask our marriage experts about the processing time.

Notification of a child´s name

You can find the current processing time at the Processing Times page under Having or adopting a child > Notification of a child's name.