Can I change my name in Switzerland?
It depends on the reasons — a name change needs respectable reasons. Under ZGB Art. 30, the cantonal authority can approve a name change if respectable reasons exist — for example if the name causes disadvantage, ridicule or serious distress. A mere wish for a different name isn't enough; changes to evade creditors or a criminal record are refused. Canton of Zürich example (illustrative): the cantonal municipal office is competent; the fee is about CHF 600 (even if rejected), with a flat CHF 100 for a joint family application. Name changes on marriage or divorce go via the register office, not Art. 30. In short: yes, with respectable reasons and for a fee.
📋 The rules
- Approval by the cantonal authority (ZGB 30)
- Required: respectable reasons (disadvantage, ridicule, distress)
- A mere wish isn't enough
- Zürich: fee about CHF 600 (even if rejected)
- Marriage/divorce: via the register office
🔓 Exceptions
- Joint identical family application in Zürich: flat CHF 100
- Evading creditors/criminal record: refused
- Fee waiver only below the subsistence minimum
⚠️ Penalties & fines
This isn't about fines, but an application without respectable reasons is refused — and the fee (about CHF 600 in Zürich) is due even on refusal. An abusive application, for example to evade creditors or a criminal record, is rejected. Beware a myth: "I can change my name whenever I like" is false — respectable reasons are needed, which the authority reviews. Tip: set out your reasons carefully and with evidence, and check with the cantonal office in advance whether they might count as respectable before risking the fee.
📎 Official sources
- Canton of Zürich · apply for a name change →
- Municipal office Zürich · name change →
- Fedlex · Civil Code (ZGB Art. 30) →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I change my name?
Yes, but only with respectable reasons. Under Article 30 of the Civil Code, the cantonal authority can approve a name change if the name causes a disadvantage, ridicule or serious distress. A mere wish for a different name isn't enough to justify the change being granted.
What are respectable reasons?
Respectable reasons exist where your current name brings you concrete disadvantages, makes you ridiculous or seriously burdens you, for example due to a difficult family history. The authority reviews this case by case. A mere preference for another name doesn't suffice to grant the change.
What does a name change cost?
In the canton of Zürich the fee is about CHF 600, and it's charged even if the application is rejected. For a joint, identical family application a flat fee of CHF 100 applies. A fee waiver is only possible if you're below the subsistence minimum income level.
What applies on marriage or divorce?
Name changes connected with marriage or divorce go via the register office and not via the Article 30 procedure. You can, for example, choose a common family name or, after a divorce, take back your former name, under the corresponding rules for those situations.
Can I change my name to escape debts?
No. A name change serving to evade creditors, debt enforcement or a criminal-record entry is refused. The respectable reasons must be worthy of protection and must not serve deception. An abusive application is rejected, and the fee remains owed despite the refusal.
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