No, a wife does not have to take her husband's surname after marriage. The decision to change or keep one's surname is a personal choice and varies from culture to culture, and it's influenced by personal beliefs, traditions, and individual preferences.
In many cultures and societies, it has been a common practice for a woman to adopt her husband's surname upon marriage. This practice is often referred to as "taking the husband's name" or "assuming the husband's surname." However, this tradition has been evolving over time, and many women now choose to retain their birth surname or opt for other alternatives.
In modern societies, there is a growing recognition of the importance of personal autonomy and gender equality. As a result, more women are choosing to keep their own surname, hyphenating their surname with their spouse's, creating a new surname together, or even having both partners change their surnames to a completely different one.
The decision regarding surname change should be a matter of personal preference and mutual agreement between the spouses. Both partners should feel comfortable with the decision and respect each other's choices.
It's important to note that legal processes related to name changes can vary by country and region. In some places, changing one's surname after marriage may require specific legal procedures, while in others, it may be more straightforward. It's advisable for individuals to familiarize themselves with the legal requirements in their respective jurisdictions if they decide to change their surname or adopt a new one after marriage.