8 Countries Where Men Can Take Their Wife’s Surname

In many cultures, it’s the woman who traditionally takes her husband’s surname after marriage. But did you know that in some countries, the reverse is possible?

Yes, men can actually adopt their wife’s surname — and in some places, the law or culture even encourages it.

From Canada to South Africa, let’s look at countries where this surprising twist happens.

1. Canada 

Canadian law gives both partners equal rights to adopt each other’s surname. Men can take their wife’s last name without stress in most provinces.

2. United States

Although still uncommon, some American men legally take their wife’s surname. The process varies by state, but it’s legally possible.

3. Spain & Latin America 

In countries like Spain, Mexico, and Argentina, people traditionally carry both father and mother’s surnames. While unusual, men can also adopt their wife’s surname.

4. France

French law since 2013 allows either spouse to use the other’s surname officially, so men taking their wife’s surname is legally recognized.

5. Japan

The law requires couples to share one surname. While most women adopt their husband’s, men are free to take their wife’s surname instead.

6. Philippines

Philippine law allows men to use their wife’s surname, either fully or as part of a hyphenated version.

7. Greece

Greek law is flexible, and it’s not unusual for husbands to legally adopt their wife’s surname.

8. South Africa 

In 2024, a South African court ruled that preventing men from taking their wife’s surname was discriminatory. Now, husbands officially have the right to adopt their wife’s surname, with Parliament ordered to amend the law to reflect this.

While it’s still rare in many parts of the world (especially Africa), the tradition of men taking their wife’s surname is gaining recognition. Whether for love, equality, or personal choice, these 8 countries prove that marriage and identity can be more flexible than tradition suggests.