Change of Gender Designation and First Names
The Self-Determination Act (SBGG) took effect on November 1, 2024. This law gives transgender, intersex, and non-binary individuals the option to change their gender designation and first names by filing a declaration with the civil registry office. You must notify the civil registry office of this declaration at least 3 months in advance.
Jurisdiction
You can submit the declaration to change your gender designation and first names—or first name—at any civil registry office. It takes effect when it is received by the competent civil registry office. This is generally the civil registry office at your place of birth.
Submitting the Declaration
If you wish to change your gender designation and your first name(s), you must submit a notice to the competent civil registry office at least 3 months in advance. You have 6 months from the date of submission to file the corresponding declaration. After this period expires, the notice of the declaration becomes invalid.
The notification must be submitted in writing.
Can the declaration be submitted more than once?
If your gender designation and first names have been changed, you may submit a new notice after one year has elapsed. Please note that when submitting a declaration regarding your previous gender designation, you cannot choose new first names.
Note:
If you would like to consult with a registrar before filing the declaration, please feel free to contact them by phone or email.
The relevant staff members are happy to provide further information.
