Partner's Surname Choice in Westland
In Westland, upon marriage or registered partnership, partners can make a partner's surname choice. 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. For residents of Westland, this is a crucial moment, especially given the local traditions in the Westland horticultural region.
What is a partner's surname choice?
The partner's surname choice gives spouses or partners the freedom to decide on their surname usage at the time of their union. The Netherlands offers more flexibility in this regard than many neighboring countries: no automatic surname adoption. The choice is recorded in the deed at the Municipality of Westland and remains in effect for the duration of the marriage or partnership.
This article builds on our overview of name change after marriage and focuses on the options during the ceremony in Westland.
Legal basis
The rules for partner's surname choice are found in Book 1 of the Civil Code (CC), Articles 1:10 to 1:14. Article 1:10 CC states that partners may retain their own surname unless otherwise decided.
Article 1:11 CC governs the joint surname, such as a combination of first names or surnames. For non-Dutch names, additional rules apply under Article 1:12 CC. Upon termination (divorce or death), you can revert to your original surname under Article 1:14 CC.
For children, Article 1:9 CC applies, where parental choices influence the child's surname.
Options for partner's surname choice
At the civil registrar in the Municipality of Westland, you make your choice. Overview:
| Option | Explanation | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Retain own surname | Each partner keeps their own surname. | No change; most popular and simplest in Westland. |
| Adopt partner's surname | One partner takes the other's surname. | Unilateral; reversible later via procedure. |
| Shared surname | Combination, e.g., surname1 + prefix surname2. | Both use the same name; limited to max. 2 parts. |
The shared surname must be unique and contain no more than two parts.
Procedure in Westland step by step
- Preparation: Discuss preferences with your partner in advance.
- Declaration: Report the marriage or partnership to the Municipality of Westland and indicate your name preference.
- Ceremony: Confirm the choice during the ceremony with the registrar.
- Post-ceremony action: Receive an extract with the updated name if it changes.
- Update documents: Apply for a new passport or ID at the Municipality of Westland.
Westland examples
Example 1: Marieke van der Hoek (from 's-Gravenzande) and Piet Blom (from Naaldwijk) marry and choose 'van der Hoek-Blom'. Both now bear this name.
Example 2: Lisa Kwakman and Tom de Best keep their own names. Their child gets a combined name like 'Kwakman-de Best'.
Example 3: After divorce, Tom reverts to 'de Best'. The child's surname remains the same unless the Westland District Court rules otherwise.
Rights and obligations
- Rights: Full freedom of choice; changes possible via Westland District Court (Art. 1:5 CC).
- Obligations: Choice must be finalized before the ceremony; coercion can invalidate the deed.
- Consent required for shared surname.
- After divorce: reversion is standard, retention optional (Art. 1:14(2) CC).
FAQs for Westland
Can I change my partner's surname choice later?
Yes, via a request to the Westland District Court (Art. 1:5 CC) during the marriage. After divorce, it reverts automatically unless retention is chosen.
What about a foreign surname?
Rules also apply to foreigners. Combinations follow Dutch standards (Art. 1:12 CC). Contact the Municipality of Westland.
Impact on child's surname?
Yes, parental choice determines child's surname options (Art. 1:9 CC). Shared surname becomes standard for the child.
Are there any costs?
No for the marriage choice itself. Yes for passports at the Municipality of Westland (around €70) and child changes.
Tips for Westland residents
- Plan ahead: Consider implications for work in greenhouse horticulture, family, and children. Discuss with loved ones.
- Expert advice: Visit the Municipality of Westland, the Westland Legal Advice Office, or a family law attorney at the Westland District Court.
- Get it right: Keep all deeds and update documents promptly.