Digital and Population Data Services Agency adopts new automated decision-making procedure in its Name Change Service – returning to a previous surname will now be easier

Automated decision-making means that the official does not take part in the resolution of the matter, but that it is resolved by automated data processing. The automated procedure speeds up the resolution of customer cases, and its introduction is part of a suite of measures designed to enhance the Digital and Population Data Services Agency’s processes. In the future, the procedure will also be adopted in certain other types of name change applications, as well as in other services offered by the Digital and Population Data Services Agency. 

Automated decision-making can be used when a case does not involve any case-specific consideration and can be decided on the basis of the information available in, for example, the Population Information System, or the case involves case-specific considerations that have already been assessed by an official before the case is concluded. 

Returning to a previous surname will now be easier

In most cases, returning to an earlier surname becomes topical after specific events, such as a divorce. However, a divorce is not a precondition for returning to a previous name, as you will alway be entitled to return to a previously used surname.

Each year, the Digital and Population Data Services Agency processes around 3,000–3,500 applications for returning to a previous name. In the past, each application had to be examined and processed by an official, which could take three to four weeks. The automated solution allows applicants to submit and pay for their applications online and receive a decision electronically within one to two days.

The automated solution is also expected to streamline the processing of other name change applications, as it will allow officials to focus on processing applications that require human judgment. 

Additional information:

Laura Mattila registrar, Digital and Population Data Services Agency, tel. +358 295 539 127, laura.mattila@dvv.fi