We are not always happy with what surrounds us in this life, and it has to be totally respected by everyone. It happens in cases like this: Name and surname that we have been assigned since we were born and that due to various circumstances we do not agree with this choice. It can be Go to the Civil Registry and make a name change, but we must address the consequences of changing the name in Spain.
It is a reality that happens and that is determined by many people. change the name only, they make a radical change to the surnames or change the order of their surnames. To do so, legal procedures must be carried out and even if the person is over 16 years old, they can do so without the consent of their parents.
How to change your name in Spain?
You can change your name in Spain at any age, but if you are a minor, you need permission from your parents to do so. From the age of 16, you can do it of your own free will. and fulfilling certain requirements detailed by the Ministry of Justice.
- It will not be possible choose two simple names or a compound one.
- Nor will a name be chosen that is contrary to the dignity of the person, nor being confusing to identification.
- It is not possible either to give a newborn the same name as one of his siblings or sisters, with identical surnames. Unless they have died.
If there are doubts about the name change, it must be seek specific legal advice, since each case is unique and everything must be clear before carrying out a procedure of this type.
What documentation must be provided to change one's name or surname?
- Act quickly. fill out an application at the Civil Registry and state the reason why such change is requested.
- An Literal certification from the birth registration.
- A series of required requirements must be met, so these requirements must be provided with documentary evidence. For example, present a photocopy of your DNI or NIE, an updated birth certificate and a photocopy of your family record book.
- Prove the legitimate ownership of the surname, with certificates of birth registrations of royal ancestors, or where appropriate, with the baptismal certificate.
- When you want to change one or more surnames to a foreign language, you must provide a certificate from the academy justifying that it exists within its official language.
What are the legal consequences of making this change?
First of all, you must be 16 years old or have the authorization of your legal representatives. This change is regulated by the Law 20/2011, of July 21 and through an administrative process before the Civil Registry, as we have already mentioned in previous lines.
- Changing your name has its drawbacks. legal implications. This change will be reflected in the DNI, passport, health card, driving license, diplomas, certificates, among others. It is a fact that is mandatory and, therefore, all records must be updated.
- When the change is made, it has to beand make a fair and reasonable justificationThis fact does not have to result in discrimination, confusion or gender identity problems.
- Once the application is accepted, will be published in the Official State Gazette and in the official journal of the province where it is being carried out. The aim is to provide public information, with the possibility of presenting objections.
- Make this change It also carries its cost, which will depend on the administrative fees charged by the Ministry of Justice.
- Once the documentation has been submitted, will set a date for the hearing, ’s relationship with the Judge in charge of the Civil Registry. At this hearing, the Judge will have to make a decision, evaluating the reasons.
- Upon approval, you will receive a new birth certificate with the new name. This document may be legally used to update all records and identity documents that need to be changed.
Consequences at personal and professional level
Changing your name has its drawbacks. implications in the social, labour and educational fields. This is a serious matter, since the new name affects all employment records, academic and professional history. In these cases, the person must change your name on school records and diplomas. In the workplace, it can also create confusion among colleagues, employees or friends.
When the change is significant enough it can create an impact on relationships, especially personal and family-related. People around you may not get used to this big change and it creates confusion. On the other hand, there are families who consider it important in inheritances or custody.
The person who changes his name can also suffer a self-identity problem or emotional impactThis is often the case in cases of gender identity, as the person who has undergone a change of identity may go through a process of personal acceptance. But the change may only be for reasons that we will find out later. It must be remembered that this type of change has a profound impact on the person's legal, emotional and social life, including in their dealings with the people around them.
But such change does not always lead to great negative challenges, but rather positive ones, even if they have long-term implications. Many people experience it as a transformative and empowering experience, leading to reflect a new identity that makes them believe that it is their essence and what they expected.
Examples of people who change their name
- For security reasons. There are people who have been victims of gender violence or harassment and want to protect their identity and start a new life.
- For professional reasons. Here we include people like professionals and artists, with the intention of looking for a more professional name that is easy to pronounce and remember for their followers.
- Transgender people They are also seeking a name change. In Spain, a name change procedure is available with shorter procedures to ensure the greatest respect for the identity of these people.
- Adaptation of names to foreign people. They want to change their name so that it is better understood and there is no discrimination in the new place where they will live.
