Dutch plan would end automatic surname rule for children of married parents

The Dutch government wants children whose parents cannot agree on a surname to receive both parents’ surnames, rather than defaulting to one parent’s name. The proposal would change the current rule for married parents, whose child automatically receives the father’s surname if no choice is made.

Parents can already choose either surname or a double surname when registering a birth. Under the existing rules, if they make no choice, a child of married parents receives the father’s surname; a child of unmarried parents receives the mother’s.

The proposed change would give the child both surnames in alphabetical order when parents do not agree. The Ministry of Justice and Security describes the approach as “a gender-neutral arrangement in which both parents are treated equally”. Parents would also be able to choose a different surname within the first year.

The government says the proposal follows an adopted motion from PRO and D66. It is due to go out for consultation in January, giving interested parties an opportunity to comment before the bill is submitted.