Last name decisions

In Poland, while it is common for one spouse to adopt the other’s surname after marriage, this is not a mandatory requirement. Couples have several legally recognized options regarding surname choices.

Surname options

Couples may choose from the following surname options:

  • Adoption: One spouse adopts the other spouse’s surname.
  • Retention: Both spouses retain their respective pre-marriage surnames.
  • Combination: Both spouses’ surnames are combined to form a double-barreled surname. This combined surname can be taken by one or both spouses.

Any desired surname changes must be formally requested and registered at the Registry office (Urząd Stanu Cywilnego, USC) at the time of marriage registration.
Upon processing a name change request, the registry office will issue new official documents reflecting the chosen surname(s).

Children’s surnames

Spouses can also specify the surname(s) of their future children during the marriage registration process.
If no explicit decision is made regarding children’s surnames, children will automatically receive a double-barreled surname upon birth registration.