Spouses can change their surname after marriage: how to do it legally

Changing surname after marriage registration in Ukraine

According to Главком: In Ukraine, spouses have the right to change their surname after marriage registration, which is regulated by current legislation. This opportunity gives young families the freedom to choose in forming a common identity. The procedure for changing the surname is quite simple, but requires adherence to certain steps.

The procedure for changing the surname

To change the surname, spouses need to submit an application to the relevant authorities. This can be:

• the Civil Registry Office;
• The Center for Administrative Services (CNAP);
• a diplomatic mission or consular institution of Ukraine if one of the spouses is abroad.

During the process of changing the surname, spouses have the opportunity to choose a common surname or add one of the partner’s surnames to their own.

It should be noted that forming more than two surnames is not allowed, except in cases where it is provided for by the customs of a national minority. Recently, in October 2023, 83-year-old Oleksiy and 75-year-old Lydia got married in Odesa region, which also emphasizes the relevance of this topic for people of different ages.

Thus, the procedure for changing the surname after marriage is accessible and regulated, allowing spouses to realize their desires regarding family identity.

Changing the surname after marriage registration is an important aspect of family life in Ukraine. This right gives spouses the opportunity to express their common identity and also takes into account cultural and social features that may influence the choice of surname. The increasing number of marriages, even at a mature age, indicates that the issues of family relations and the formation of family ties remain relevant for Ukrainian society.