When someone moves to Germany, can the government make them change their name?

Question

When an American citizen moves to Germany, can the government make them change their last name because they think it is inappropriate? Does the German government give an American citizen a list of names that they deem appropriate and make they choose one? I know of someone that just moved there that is claiming that this is the case. I am finding it difficult to believe.

Answer 1

Yeah, it's a bit weird, but it's not unheard of.  Until the 1980s, Spain had a list of approved given names for children.  I have no idea about Germany.

Answer 2

There is no such law in Germany. Now if your last name is Hitler, you might consider changing it, but otherwise, no.

Answer 3

Yes however strange it is its true this is what the Germans can make you do when you move there- change your last name.

Some believe that maybe Spitzer (Who resigned Yesterday), Moved to Germany and was forced to change his name.

I dont know if thats official thow, but your friend or family member isnt lieing and is telling you the truth.

Answer 4

I once read that in West Germany (guess you can see how long ago THAT was), the law required that a child's name be appropriate to his/her gender. Also, there were restrictions on how long a child's name could be (A total of four names).