nimenmuutos

Nimenmuutos is a legal process in Finland by which a person changes their name. It covers changes to given names (etunimi) and surnames (sukunimi), or both, and can be pursued for personal reasons as well as in connection with life events such as marriage or adoption. The name change is a matter of public records and ultimately affects the person’s official identity.

The process is governed by Finnish naming law and handled by the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). The DVV evaluates proposals to ensure that the requested name is legally acceptable, not misleading, and not in conflict with existing names or naming rules. The agency updates the Population Information System to reflect the new name if the change is approved. Decisions may be subject to appeal to the administrative court.

Who may apply varies with age. Adults may apply for themselves, while minors require consent from their guardians or other authorized representatives. In practice, applicants provide personal details, the proposed new name, and a justification for the change, along with identity documents and payment of a processing fee. The DVV assesses issues such as potential confusion, offense, or harm to the right to a private life.

If the change is approved, the new name becomes the official name used in all legal and administrative contexts. Applicants typically need to update other records and documents (passport, driver’s license, bank accounts, and memberships) to reflect the change. Nimenmuutos is thus a formal step in redefining legal identity within the Finnish civil registry.