Thuringian registrars face an increased workload due to the new naming law - Strict naming changes pose challenges for Thuringian government employees
In Thuringia, registry offices have seen a significant surge in the workload related to name changes, with the number of requests increasing by approximately 20 percent. This rise in demand can be attributed to a new naming law that came into effect in May 2025, offering more design options for double names and naming choices for step- and divorced children, as well as in adoptions.
The new law, however, has brought about its own set of challenges. For instance, the software used for name changes is not yet fully comprehensive, making the process time-consuming. Moreover, each case of name change must be considered and checked individually due to the complexity of the situations and the lack of case law so far.
One of the most notable changes under the new law is the increased interest in renaming, particularly among adults who received a parent's married name as minors. The demand for name changes regarding the new law has increased up to five times in some locations. However, in some cases, changing a minor child's family name after the separation of the parents is not possible according to the current legal situation.
The city of Weimar anticipates that the number of name changes will remain at a high level due to gradually increasing awareness about the numerous constellations in which name changes are now possible. Interestingly, the initial assumption that there would be a rush on double names as last names has proven to be incorrect.
In Sonneberg, out of 100 marriages since the beginning of the year, only two couples have chosen a double name, indicating a more nuanced approach to the new naming options. The situations can become very complex when parents come from abroad and the family name of the child is determined based on German regulations.
The implementation of the new law has also presented challenges in cities like Suhl, where the complexity of the situations and the lack of case law are causing difficulties. Constant new guidelines for practical implementation are being provided by the relevant federal authorities to help navigate these challenges.
Despite the complexities, the process of changing one's name remains uncomplicated in terms of the administrative act itself. However, determining the facts and informing the citizen about the name change process can be time-consuming. The cost for a name change in Thuringia is approximately 35 euros.
It's worth noting that, as of now, there is no evidence of a recent German "naming law" specific to Thuringia that has led to a notable increase in the workload of registry offices in other regions. If you meant a different law or need information about a specific legislative change, please clarify.
In conclusion, while the new naming law in Thuringia has led to an increase in demand for name changes, it has also presented challenges in terms of implementation and complexity. Registry offices are working diligently to adapt to these changes and provide citizens with the necessary guidance.
- The Commission, in the sphere of policy-and-legislation, is yet to make a decision on the application of Article 93 (2) of the Treaty to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, a topic that has received general-news attention in the realms of politics.
- Meanwhile, in the realm of health-and-wellness, the surge in name changes in Thuringia has been linked to the new naming law, with adults seeking to change names that they received as minors, a move often associated with mental-health benefits.
- In the realm of science, the time-consuming process of name changes in Thuringia can be attributed to the lack of a fully comprehensive software system, while each case's complexity necessitates individual consideration and check.
- In the realm of workplace-wellness, the new naming law in Thuringia has not led to a significant surge in double names as last names, indicating a more nuanced approach to the new naming options among citizens.
