So, you’ve tied the knot! Maybe it was an elegant city wedding in Brussels, a fairytale castle celebration in Ghent, or even a romantic elopement in Bruges (major Notebook vibes, right?). Either way, congratulations! 🎉
But now comes the next big question: Can you change your last name after marriage in Belgium?
If you’re imagining a quick signature at the town hall and—bam!—your new name appears on all your documents, I’ve got some news for you: Belgium plays by its own rules. But don’t worry, I’ve got all the details you need to navigate the process like a pro.
Can You Change Your Last Name in Belgium After Marriage?
Short answer: No, not legally.
Unlike in some countries where taking your spouse’s last name is automatic, Belgium does not allow a legal name change due to marriage. Your birth name remains your official name on all legal documents—including your passport, ID card, and driver’s license.
However, here’s the loophole: you can use your spouse’s last name socially and professionally. You just can’t make it official in government records.
Using Your Spouse’s Last Name in Daily Life
While your official name stays the same, you can use your partner’s surname in certain ways. Here’s how:
1. At Work
Your employer can list your married name in emails and internal documents, but legally, your contracts will still be under your birth name.
2. Banks & Bills
Most banks allow you to add your married name as an additional reference on accounts. So, while your legal name won’t change, you can still receive mail as “Mrs. Dupont” instead of “Ms. Janssens.”
3. Social & Professional Identity
You can update your name on LinkedIn, email signatures, and business cards—so if you love the sound of “Dr. Vermeulen-De Smet,” go for it!
4. Travel & Documents
Here’s where things get tricky:
✈ Plane tickets must match the legal name on your passport. Booking under your married name could cause airport chaos.
🏦 Official government forms (taxes, contracts) will always use your birth name, no exceptions.
Can Foreigners Change Their Last Name in Belgium?
If you’re from a country that allows name changes after marriage (like the U.S., UK, or Canada), you might be able to update your documents from your home country. But Belgian authorities will not recognize this change in local records.
For dual nationals, this means your Belgian ID and foreign passport could have different names—which can be, well… confusing. Check with your embassy for advice before making the switch!
Why Doesn’t Belgium Allow Name Changes After Marriage?
Belgium is big on gender equality. Historically, women were expected to take their husband’s name, but modern Belgian law prioritizes equal identity rights. So, while it might feel frustrating, the system is designed to ensure no one is forced to change their identity after marriage.
And honestly? There’s something empowering about keeping your original name while building a life together.
Can You Change Your Last Name in Belgium at All?
Technically, yes—but not because of marriage.
Belgium allows legal name changes, but you’ll need to apply through the Ministry of Justice with a valid reason (like avoiding a name associated with criminal history or serious ridicule). Just being married? That’s not enough to justify the change.
Real Talk: The Pros & Cons of Keeping Your Birth Name
✨ Pros:
✅ No paperwork hassle—your documents stay the same.
✅ No risk of mismatches on official records.
✅ Gender equality win!
⚠️ Cons:
❌ If you love the idea of a shared last name, you’re out of luck.
❌ Can cause minor confusion in everyday life (e.g., “Oh, you and Mr. Janssens aren’t married?” Cue the awkward silence).
So, what’s a modern couple to do? Many choose to combine their names informally—think “Dupont-Janssens” or “Vermeulen-De Smet.” It’s a stylish, compromise-friendly way to honor both identities.
Practical Tips for Newlyweds in Belgium
If you’re planning to use your spouse’s last name socially, here are a few tricks to make life easier:
✅ Update your email signature: A simple “Marie Dupont (née Janssens)” keeps things clear.
✅ Let your bank know: They can add a secondary name reference.
✅ Use your married name for social purposes: On invitations, social media, and Christmas cards, feel free to embrace your new identity.
✅ Stick with your birth name for legal stuff: Especially for travel, contracts, and taxes—trust me, you don’t want those headaches.
Final Thoughts: Love is More Than a Last Name
At the end of the day, marriage is about love, partnership, and building a life together—not just a name on a piece of paper. So whether you keep your birth name, hyphenate socially, or just embrace the quirks of Belgian law, what truly matters is the story you’re writing together.
And speaking of capturing stories…
Your wedding day deserves to be remembered in the most breathtaking way possible! 🎥💍
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Because love deserves to be captured—not just in a name, but in moments that last forever. ❤️
