Change of Name and Correction of Age

Author: Att. Ahmet Bertuğ Dönmez Date: 24 July 20261 min read

Information such as the first name and date of birth in civil registry records can, as a rule, only be changed by a court decision (Civil Registry Services Law No. 5490, Arts. 35, 36).

Change of name

A change of name may be requested from the judge on just grounds (Turkish Civil Code No. 4721, Art. 27). Being known by another name, a name with a ridiculous or negative meaning, or religious or cultural reasons may be considered just cause in practice. The change is registered in the civil registry and published.

Correction of age

In a case to correct the date of birth, the court relies on school and health records, family records, witness statements and, where needed, a medical age assessment. Since age correction may affect military service, retirement and other rights, the court examines the evidence carefully.

Procedure

Cases are filed before the civil court of first instance against the civil registry directorate (Law No. 5490, Art. 36).

Sources

• Turkish Civil Code No. 4721, Art. 27
• Civil Registry Services Law No. 5490, Arts. 35, 36