First name change

You can ask change your first name.

You can also ask:

• Adding a first name
• The deletion a first name
• Changing the order of your first names.

First name change request must have a legitimate interest.

Examples:

• Your first name or the junction between your first and last name is ridiculous or prejudicial to you
• Other people (parents, siblings, employers, colleagues) call you by a first name other than your original first name.

The request for a change of first name shall not be contrary to the best interests of the child or to rights of others to have their surnames protected.

Major

You're making the request for yourself.

Since 1^er july 2022, a guardianship major may ask to change their first name without being represented by their guardian.

The approach is free.

The file to make a first name change request is different depending on whether you are an adult or a minor.

Major

You must build a file with the application form and supporting documents.

Form

Fill out the form cerfa no. 16233.

Proof of identity and residence

• Original full copy of your birth certificate, less than 3 months old
• Valid ID ID. You have to present the original.
• Copy of a recent proof of address. If you are hosted by another person, proof of recent residence of the person hosting you + sworn certificate the person hosting you certifying the accommodation.

Elements concerning the merits of the application

Depending on your situation, you can provide the following documents (this list is indicative). Copies are enough.

• Childhood or school
  For example, birth certificate, health booklet, family record book, diplomas.
• Working life
  For example, employment contract, certification of co-workers (with identification), professional emails.
• Administrative life
  For example, old or current identification documents, invoices, tax notices, proof of domicile.
• Personal life (family, friends, leisure)
  For example, family certificates, certificate of registration for a leisure activity.

You can also reach medical certificates indicating the difficulties you encounter because of your first name.

Civil status documents to be updated following the change of first name

Depending on your situation, you must provide the original full copies the following acts:

• Act of marriage
• Act of birth of your spouse or civil partnership partner
• Act of birth of each of your children.

A copy of your family record book can be requested.

You live in France

If the registrar feels that your request for a change of first name does not have a legitimate interest, he must contact the public prosecutor.

The registrar must inform you that he has contacted the public prosecutor.

The public prosecutor may accept or refuse your request for a change of name.

The decision is yours notified.

In the event of a refusal decision, you can to appeal to the family affairs judge.

The lawyer is obligatory. He's the one who does the walk.

You will receive a copy of the decision regarding your name change.

Your civil registration records are updated.

Once your birth certificate has been updated, you must change your credentials (identity card, passport).

You have to do the walk in a three-month period from the time you update your birth certificate.