If you’re moving to, studying in, applying for naturalization in Germany, you’ll usually need a sworn (certified) EN→DE translation of the official name-change document from the country where it was issued. Passports and driver’s licences won’t do. Therefore, bring the country’s primary name-change record.

What counts as “primary”?

• UK: Deed of Change of Name (Deed Poll) — “Enrolled Deed Poll” if filed at the Royal Courts of Justice. Unenrolled is fine but include the witnessing/solicitor page.
• Ireland: Deed Poll (often enrolled in the High Court) or a Statutory Declaration of Change of Name (some offices require enrollment or supporting evidence).
• USA: Court Order/Judgment for Change of Name (phrasing varies by state: “Order Granting Change of Name,” “Name Change Decree,” etc.). If a divorce restored the name, include the Divorce Decree.
• Canada (provincial): Usually Change of Name Certificate. Variants: “Legal Change of Name Certificate” (e.g., BC), “Certificate of Change of Name” appears in some provinces.
• Australia (state/territory): Change of Name Certificate from the relevant BDM Registry (exact wording may include the state name).
• New Zealand: Name Change Certificate issued by the Department of Internal Affairs.

 

German authorities (e.g. Standesamt, Ausländerbehörde)  often require a sworn translation of the name-change document and of any apostille/legalisation attached to it. If your new name resulted from marriage or divorce, expect to translate the marriage certificate and/or divorce order showing the name choice. Bring certified copies where possible; IDs alone aren’t enough. Nachtigal Services provides fast, court-sworn EN→DE translations tailored to these requirements, including apostilles translations so your paperwork is accepted.