Choosing the child's first name

The birth certificate issued by the registrar of births, marriages and deaths may not feature any first names that may cause confusion or be detrimental to the child or third parties (Law of 15 May 1987). The registrar of births, marriages and deaths or the official's representative may therefore refuse any first names deemed to be insulting or derisory. Should the registrar of births, marriages and deaths refuse a first name, and the parents still wish to use this name for their child, they will have to lodge an appeal with a civil court.
The registrar of births, marriages and deaths is not entitled to settle any disputes between the parents themselves. The official may offer advice, such as reminding the parents of the usual spelling of a first name but the parents are responsible for choosing the first name and the way it is spelled.
The number of first names is not restricted by law but the registrar of births, marriages and deaths may decide to accept only a certain number.

See also : Changing a surname or first name