Chileans Gain Landmark Right to Choose Surname Order
Santiago, Chile - A new law in Chile grants citizens over 18 the unprecedented ability to choose the order of their surnames, prioritizing either their mother’s or father’s family name. the legislation, recently enacted, also empowers parents to determine the surname order for their children, a decision that will automatically apply to all subsequent siblings. This marks a significant shift in Chilean tradition, where paternal surnames historically took precedence.
For generations, Chilean naming conventions rigidly followed the father’s surname first, followed by the mother’s. This change responds to growing calls for gender equality adn individual autonomy, allowing individuals to express their identity and lineage more freely. The law impacts all Chilean citizens and those seeking citizenship, offering a one-time chance to modify their legal name. The process is now open, and applications are being accepted at Civil Registry offices nationwide.
How to Change Your Surname Order
The procedure requires a prior online appointment booked through the Civil registry’s website using a unique key: https://solicitudeswebrc.srcei.cl/ReservaDeHoraSRCEI/web/init.srcei. At the appointment, applicants must present their national identity card and complete the appropriate form.
The required form varies based on parental status:
Adults without children: Formulario C7.
Adults with children under 14: Formulario C7.
* Adults with children between 14 and 18: Formulario C7 and Formulario C8 (requiring the child’s consent).
The Civil Registry has approximately 45 business days to process applications and notify applicants of the decision. While the surname order change itself is free, individuals will be responsible for the costs associated with updating their identification documents. Additionally, adults initiating the process must cover the expense of publication in the Official Gazette.A One-Time Opportunity
Authorities emphasize that this change in surname order can be made only once in a person’s lifetime. Thus,individuals are encouraged to carefully consider their decision before initiating the process. This law represents a modernizing step for Chile, aligning its naming practices with evolving societal values and individual rights.