Partner Surname Choice in Tilburg
As a resident of Tilburg, you can make a partner surname choice at the Municipality of Tilburg upon marriage or registered partnership. You choose whether to keep your own surname, adopt your partner's, or use a joint family name. This decision affects you, your partner, and possibly your children. Take time to consider it carefully, especially in a vibrant city like Tilburg with its diverse population.
What does partner surname choice mean for Tilburg residents?
The partner surname choice gives spouses or partners the freedom to select their surname when entering their union. The Netherlands offers more options than many neighboring countries. You are not required to take your partner's name. The choice is recorded in the marriage or partnership deed and applies for as long as the relationship lasts. For more on related changes, see our article on name change after marriage in Tilburg.
Legal basis
The rules are in Book 1 of the Civil Code (BW), Articles 1:10 to 1:14. Article 1:10 BW states that partners may use their own surname unless otherwise chosen. Article 1:11 BW covers joint surnames, such as combinations. For non-Dutch names, Article 1:12 BW applies. Upon termination (divorce or death), you can revert under Article 1:14 BW. Children fall under Article 1:9 BW.
Possible choices at the civil registry in Tilburg
At the registrar of the Municipality of Tilburg, choose from these options:
| Choice | Description | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Keep own surname | Each partner retains their name. | No change; most popular and simplest option in Tilburg. |
| Adopt partner's surname | One partner takes the other's name. | Unilateral; adjustable later via court. |
| Form joint surname | Mix like 'Jansen-Van Tilburg' or parts of both. | Everyone shares the same name; limited to max two parts. |
The combined name must be unique and concise.
Step-by-step procedure in Tilburg
- Preparation: Discuss options with your partner and family.
- Notice: Report the marriage or partnership to the Municipality of Tilburg and state your preference.
- Ceremony: Declare the choice before the registrar.
- Post-ceremony: Receive your deed with any new name.
- Update ID: Apply for a new passport at the Municipality of Tilburg.
Practical examples for Tilburg
Example 1: Lisa van Tilburg and Mark de Jong marry in the Spoorzone. They choose 'Van Tilburg-de Jong' as their joint name.
Example 2: Sophie Peijnenburg and Tom Verhulst keep their names. Their child is named 'Peijnenburg-Verhulst'.
Example 3: After divorce, Tom reverts to Verhulst. Child's name stays unless the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant in Breda rules otherwise.
Rights and obligations
- Rights: Full freedom of choice; court adjustment (art. 1:5 BW).
- Obligations: Choice before ceremony; consent needed for joint name.
- After divorce: automatic reversion, retention possible (art. 1:14 para. 2 BW).
FAQs for Tilburg
Can I change my surname later?
Yes, apply to the District Court of Zeeland-West-Brabant (Breda) during marriage (art. 1:5 BW). After divorce, automatic unless retaining.
Partner with foreign name?
Rules apply; verify spelling at Municipality of Tilburg (art. 1:12 BW).
Impact on children?
Yes, sets child's surname (art. 1:9 BW); joint name is standard.
Costs in Tilburg?
Choice free; passport approx. €70 at Municipality of Tilburg.
Tips for Tilburg residents
- Think ahead: Consider career, family, and kids in our city.
- Seek advice: Visit Legal Aid Desk Tilburg, Municipality of Tilburg, or a local family lawyer.
- Document everything: Keep deeds and update documents right away.