Can I give my child any name I want in Sweden?
Almost freely — but you must register the child's first and last name with the Tax Agency within 3 months of birth. The child must have at least one first name, and a name can be refused if it causes offence, may cause discomfort, or is obviously unsuitable as a first name. The surname must be one a parent bears or has borne, a double surname, a -son/-dotter name, or a sibling's surname. A protected surname (fewer than 2,000 bearers) is restricted, and a newly created or protected surname costs 1,800 kr. If you do not register in time the Tax Agency assigns no name automatically but can issue a conditional fine.
📋 The rules
- Register first and last name with the Tax Agency within 3 months
- The child must have at least one first name
- A name is refused if it causes offence or is unsuitable
- Surname: a parent's name, a double name, -son/-dotter or a sibling's
- A protected/newly created surname costs 1,800 kr
🔓 Exceptions
- Religiously offensive or insulting names are refused
- A newly created surname is allowed if not previously used
- Taking a name a parent already bears is free
⚠️ Penalties & fines
The Tax Agency does not assign a name automatically. If you do not register in time, a reminder comes, then an injunction and finally a conditional-fine order, where the fine can reach several thousand kronor.
📎 Official sources
- Tax Agency · Name for a newborn →
- Personal Names Act (2016:1013) · Riksdagen →
- Tax Agency · Changing surname →
❓ Frequently asked
How quickly must I name the child?
Within three months of birth you must register both the first and last name with the Tax Agency.
Can a name be refused?
Yes, if it causes offence, may cause the child discomfort, or is obviously unsuitable as a first name.
What surname can the child have?
A name a parent bears or has borne, a double surname, a -son/-dotter name or a sibling's surname.
Does naming the child cost anything?
Taking a name a parent already bears is free. A newly created or protected surname costs 1,800 kr.
What happens if I don't register in time?
The Tax Agency assigns no name automatically but sends a reminder and can ultimately issue a conditional fine.
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