Life events and personal status

Changing your surname: what to check before applying

Preparing to apply for a surname change at the Population Authority.

4 minutes to read Last checked: 20.10.2026
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Important to know

Tachles Israel is an independent information service, not a government authority. Check binding conditions, eligibility and deadlines with the official source.

Before you start

Changing your name is a formal procedure that may affect your ID card, passport and other documents. Check service conditions, attendance requirements and fees before visiting.

Who is this guide for?

People considering a surname change.

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Conditions and exceptions

The procedure is governed by the Names Law and may restrict repeated changes. Check the current conditions.

Step by step

The checklist

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Your progress0 of 4 Steps
01

Read the conditions and implications

Check attendance requirements, documents and the implications for your ID card and passport.
What should you prepare?

ID card and passport as required by the service.

Please note

In some cases, further name changes are restricted for a period.

Name change serviceThis link opens an external website↗
02

Prepare the form and documents

Download the official form and prepare the required documents, including an explanation if requested.
What should you prepare?

Form and identification documents as instructed.

Please note

Do not use an outdated form found on a third-party website.

03

Check whether you need an appointment

A surname change involves replacement of the ID card and passport, so book an appointment in advance through the official service. Check which original documents to bring.
What should you prepare?

Original documents as required.

Please note

You may need to replace identification documents following the change.

04

Update relevant organisations after approval

Once you receive the new documents, check with your bank, employer, educational institutions and suppliers whether your name must be updated.
What should you prepare?

Updated documents as required by each organisation.

Please note

Each organisation sets its own process; do not assume the name updates automatically everywhere.

Official sources

These links let you check with the responsible authority. The website's verification date does not guarantee that every detail has remained up to date since then.

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