Name or Surname Change in the Lithuanian Population Register

Is it possible to change the spelling of your name or surname in the Lithuanian Population Register? Yes, it is possible if there is a valid reason and your personal data in another country—such as on your birth certificate or passport—is recorded differently than in the Lithuanian register. A common case is the desire to restore the original spelling, especially when the name or surname contains letters not found in the Lithuanian alphabet, such as “W” or “Q.”

When can you change your name or surname?

According to the Lithuanian Civil Status Acts Registration Law, changing your name or surname is allowed when:

• Your name or surname is recorded differently in documents of other countries;
• You are registered in the Lithuanian Population Register and are a Lithuanian citizen;
• Your name or surname was changed by a foreign authority and is supported by official documents;
• You want to restore the original historical or ethnic form;
• There is a spelling mistake in your name or surname;
• You want to unify the spelling with foreign documents for practical reasons (e.g., travel, international registration);
• Your name or surname is unusual or causes inconvenience, and you want a simpler or more international version.

Common case: Using the letter “W”

Persons with Dual citizenship or born and raised abroad often apply to change the spelling of their name or surname when it was adapted in the Lithuanian register according to Lithuanian language rules (e.g., changing “Warren” to “Varren”). If your birth certificate or passport shows the spelling with “W,” this spelling can be restored in the Lithuanian register.

Previously, the letter “W” was not allowed in official Lithuanian documents because it is not part of the Lithuanian alphabet. However, since 2021, legal amendments permit the use of certain foreign letters (e.g., W, Q, X) if justified by the person’s origin or foreign documents. This change allows restoring the original form of names and surnames in the Lithuanian register more accurately.

Required documents

To change the spelling of your name or surname, you will need to submit:

• An application for name/surname change;
• An identity document (Lithuanian passport or ID card);
• Foreign birth certificate (legalized or with Apostille);
• Foreign passport or other documents showing the desired spelling;
• Translations into Lithuanian (if documents are in another language);
• If your name or surname was officially changed abroad – a document confirming this change (e.g., court decision or civil status certificate).

Where to apply?

• Civil Registry Office (Civilinės metrikacijos skyrius);
• Migration Department (in some cases);
• Lithuanian embassy or consulate (if residing abroad).
• Online through the relevant electronic services, if available.

How long does the process take?

The processing time for a name or surname change depends on the specific situation, completeness of documents, and workload of the institutions. Typically, it takes from 1 to 3 months. If documents from abroad need legalization or translation, the process may take longer. In complex cases or if additional clarifications are required, it may take up to 6 months.

How much does it cost?

Official state fees for name or surname changes generally range from 10 to 50 euros, depending on the case. Additionally, costs may occur for translations or legal representation. Our team will provide you with a detailed fee quote tailored to your situation.

Our assistance

The Migration Law Center team helps clients worldwide with name or surname changes in the Lithuanian Population Register. We can assist you with:

• Consulting on the possibility to change your name/surname;
• Preparing applications and gathering necessary documents;
• Representing you before Lithuanian authorities;
• Ensuring a smooth process compliant with legal requirements;
• Providing official translations and document legalization if needed;
• Offering personalized support based on your specific situation and foreign country requirements.

Contact us

If you want to change your name or surname, please contact us by email at info@migration.lt or via the contact form on our website. We will reply and provide all necessary information and a quote.