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Relocation and data change
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Change personal data in the population register

Your personal details have changed following a marriage, divorce or change of name abroad. You must have this entered in the register of residents.

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Description

Marriage abroad:

As a general rule, marriages contracted abroad are recognised in the Federal Republic of Germany. However, all the requirements for marriage under the law of the country in which the marriage took place must be met.

Divorce abroad:

As a general rule, foreign divorces or comparable decisions require recognition by the Higher Regional Court.

Recognition is not required

  • if, at the time of the decision, both spouses were exclusively nationals of the country whose court or authority made the decision (decisions of the home country).
  • in matrimonial matters from Member States of the European Union – except Denmark

Change of name following marriage or divorce abroad:

The name used by the spouses is governed by the law of their respective countries of nationality. If one spouse holds foreign nationality, the name stated on their foreign passport is decisive for entry in the register of residents. The foreign marriage certificate is not taken into account.

Important note

You will need to book an appointment to visit the citizens’ advice bureau.

Requirements

If you are getting married in Germany, the registration office will be informed by the registry office.

In all other cases, you (or an authorised person) must come in person.

Required documents

  • international marriage certificate or marriage certificate with translation into German
  • Divorce decree with translation into German
  • recognition by the higher regional court, if applicable
  • EU divorce: divorce decree in German translation or certificate in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 2201/2003, available from the divorce court

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Explanation of the order of the first names

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