Amendments to the Civil Code. Former spouses can keep their names after divorce

Parliament adopted, on Wednesday, a legislative project co-initiated by USR deputies, which allows each former spouse to keep the name acquired during the marriage without the consent of the other, thus eliminating bureaucratic procedures and additional costs associated with divorce.

Parliament adopted, on Wednesday, a draft amendment to the Civil Code that provides that, in the event of divorce, each former spouse can keep the name acquired during the marriage, without the consent of the other.

The project was co-initiated by USR deputies Pollyanna Hangan and Iulian Lorincz together with PNL deputy Alina Gorghiu.

According to the initiators, the amendment eliminates a condition that currently exists, which obliges the spouse who wants to keep the name to obtain the consent of the former partner or, in his absence, to go to court.

“It is a simple change, but with a real effect: people can organize their professional and personal lives without unnecessary complications, while maintaining control over their own identity. This law means more than documents and procedures: each person can find peace and rebuild their life after divorce at their own pace. For parents, for professionals, for anyone going through a separation, the power to choose their name offers them stability and security at a time that is already difficult. Now, every person who needs this law can exercise this right freely and with dignity,” said USR deputy Pollyanna Hangan, according to a press release.

The elimination of this agreement means less bureaucracy and fewer administrative problems.

If they can keep their name and will no longer be forced to return to the name they had before marriage, ex-spouses will no longer have to change all their documents (identity card, passport, driving license, electronic signatures, subscriptions, etc.). And if there are children, they will no longer be required to prove the degree of kinship with them, which means fewer complications at school, hospital, customs or in other situations”, the press release issued by USR also states.

The measure adopted today also simplifies bureaucracy for Romanians in the Diaspora who divorce in states where keeping the name does not depend on the consent of the former partner.

“They are currently facing significant difficulties, because the Romanian state requires the consent of their ex-spouse to recognize their divorce, even if it was legally pronounced abroad”, according to the press release.

Now, the law goes to President Nicușor Dan for promulgation and entry into force.