Change gender entry and first names according to SBGG

Only the terms male, female or diverse are to be used when changing your gender details. Alternatively, your gender information can be deleted.

Your declaration must always include new first names that correspond to your chosen gender and that you wish to use in future.

Gender-neutral first names may be retained, otherwise your name must reflect your chosen gender. If your gender indication is to be changed to "diverse" or deleted, new gender-ambivalent first names must be chosen.

If in doubt, you have the option of contacting a naming advice center in advance and obtaining an expert opinion if necessary. Please note that you will be responsible for any costs incurred (examples of naming advice centers: Naming advice center of the University of Leipzig or Gesellschaft für deutsche Sprache e. V. in Wiesbaden).

Your declaration in accordance with § 2 SBGG generally becomes effective upon receipt by the birth registry office. If there is no German birth register for you, the registry office that keeps your marriage register or civil partnership register is responsible. Otherwise, the registry office of your place of residence is responsible.

If your declaration in accordance with § 2 SBGG is not submitted within 6 months of registration, the registration will expire. In this case, you must submit a new application.

Changing your gender entry and your first names takes place in two stages:

1. firstly, you must submit an application to the registry office in person or in writing at least 3 months before the actual declaration of change. As a rule, reference is made to the written registration. Please use the form below and submit the original to the registry office.

Your registration according to § 4 SBGG is already possible from 01.08.2024. However, the date of receipt at the registry office is decisive here. Your registration may therefore be received on 01.08.2024 at the earliest.

2. your declaration in accordance with § 2 SBGG can be submitted to the registry office after a period of 3 months. This declaration must be publicly notarized. It is therefore essential that you attend the registry office in person. Your declaration must be submitted to the registry office where you registered.

Declarations for minors, persons with guardians or foreign nationals

If you have any questions regarding declarations by minors, persons with guardians or foreign nationals, please contact us in advance. For these cases and also to make an appointment for a declaration in accordance with Section 2 SBGG, please use our e-mail address standesamt@jena.de with the subject "Self-Determination Act".

The following original documents must be presented at the appointment for your personal declaration in accordance with § 2 SBGG:

• valid identity document (identity card or passport)
• current certified copy of your birth register
• if applicable, a current certified copy of your marriage register or civil partnership register

These fees are to be paid by VISA or EC card at the registry office in Jena.

• Act on self-determination with regard to gender entry and amending other provisions