Legal Name Change in Canada
Canadians change their names for many reasons: after marriage or divorce, during a gender transition, after adoption, to reclaim an Indigenous name, or simply because they want to. No matter the reason, a legal name change is a big step. It updates your identity across all official records and creates a permanent link between your old and new names.
But here’s the catch. If you don’t fill out the paperwork properly, things can go wrong fast. A single missing document or outdated form can delay your application or lead to a rejection. Provinces like British Columbia clearly state that incomplete or incorrect applications will not be processed. Even if your application goes through, an error can lead to mismatched identity documents later, causing issues with everything from travel to taxes.
What you will learn:
- Who can legally change their name in Canada, and how eligibility varies by province or territory
- What forms you will need, including official form names and current version numbers
- Step-by-step instructions on how to fill out the paperwork correctly
- A checklist of documents to include
- Common mistakes that cause delays, and how to avoid them
- Special cases such as name changes for children, Indigenous name reclamation, and post-divorce updates
- What to do after your name change is approved, including how to update your records
Who Can Legally Change Their Name in Canada
In Canada, most people can legally change their name if they meet the eligibility requirements set by their province or territory. While the overall process is similar nationwide, each jurisdiction has its own rules about age, residency, and documentation.
General Eligibility
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can apply for a legal name change through their province or territory of residence. You’ll need to prove your legal status (e.g., birth certificate, citizenship certificate, or PR card) and meet your province’s residency requirement:
- Ontario: Must have lived in Ontario for at least 12 consecutive months.
- British Columbia: Must have resided in B.C. for at least 3 months before applying.
- Alberta: Must be lawfully entitled to stay in Canada and make Alberta your permanent home.
Temporary residents or visitors are not eligible to apply.
Age Requirements
To apply for your own name change, you must be at least the age of majority in your province or territory:
- 18 years old: Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Prince Edward Island.
- 19 years old: British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
Quebec exception: Individuals aged 14 to 17 can apply for their own name change with parental notification.
Criminal Record Restrictions
Some provinces place limits on name changes for people with serious criminal convictions. For example, British Columbia’s Name Amendment Act (2024) prevents anyone designated as a dangerous offender, long-term offender, or convicted of certain serious crimes from legally changing their name.
Most provinces require a criminal record check for applicants aged 12 and older. Having a minor record usually does not disqualify you, but failing to disclose required information can lead to rejection of your application.
Name Changes for Children
Parents or legal guardians can apply to change a child’s name, but strict consent rules apply. All parents or guardians with legal custody must sign the application, and older children must often agree in writing.
In Alberta, children aged 12 to 17 must give written consent for their name change. In British Columbia, children aged 12 to 18 must sign the form themselves and provide a short handwritten statement explaining why they want the change.
If one parent does not consent, you may need to seek a court order or exemption, depending on provincial rules.
In Quebec, minors aged 14 to 17 can apply on their own, but their parents or guardians must be notified. Applicants in Quebec must also have lived in the province for at least one year before applying.
Situations That Don’t Require a Legal Name Change
Not every change of name requires a full legal application. In many everyday situations, your name can be updated using existing legal documents instead of going through the formal process.
After marriage or divorce:
In most provinces, you can assume your spouse’s last name, create a hyphenated name, or return to your previous surname without filing for a legal name change. All you need is your marriage certificate or divorce order.
- In British Columbia and Alberta, you can use your spouse’s surname under provincial law without a separate application.
- In Ontario, there’s an Election to Resume Former Surname form to help you revert to your previous name after a divorce.
These are treated as “assumed” or “resumed” names rather than entirely new names.
Administrative corrections:
If your name is misspelled or recorded incorrectly on a birth certificate, this can be fixed through a correction or amendment request to the provincial Vital Statistics office. For example, Alberta allows small changes or spelling corrections through an amendment process, which is faster and less expensive than a legal name change.
Adoption:
When a child is adopted, their name can be changed as part of the adoption registration process. There is no need for a separate name-change application.
Indigenous name reclamation:
Several provinces have special provisions to support Indigenous individuals reclaiming traditional names or using a single name (a mononym). Ontario, for instance, provides a Request for a Name Change to a Single Name form for cultural and traditional purposes. Some jurisdictions also waive fees or streamline the process for Indigenous name reclamation.
In short, you only need to apply for a formal legal name change if you are adopting an entirely new name or changing your given names. Changes related to marriage, divorce, adoption, clerical errors, or Indigenous name reclamation are handled through simpler administrative procedures.
Most people living in Canada can legally change their name if they meet their province’s requirements. Adults can apply for themselves, and parents or guardians can apply for minors with proper consent. Before you apply, make sure you meet the age and residency rules, gather the required documentation, and confirm there are no legal restrictions that apply to your case.
Make sure your name change application gets approved the first time. Use RunSensible Forms to collect, verify, and organize every required document before you submit.
If you’ve recently moved to a new province, wait until you meet the local residency requirement before submitting your application. Applying too early could result in delays or rejection.
Essential Paperwork(Forms and Documents)for Your Canadian Name Change
Every province and territory in Canada has its own forms and rules for legal name changes, managed through its Vital Statistics office. While details differ, the paperwork, supporting documents, and verification steps are largely consistent across the country.
Application Forms (By Province)
You’ll need to complete a formal Application for a Legal Change of Name, which varies slightly by province. Always download the latest version from your province’s official website before you start.
- Ontario:
- Form 007-11155E (Adult, 16+) and Form 007-11156E (Child, under 18).
- Both are available from the Ontario Central Forms Repository or ServiceOntario. The adult form includes a Statutory Declaration and a Guarantor’s section.
- Alberta:
- Legal Change of Name Application (Form DVS-3132) and Information Guide (DVS-3132G).
- Submitted in person at a registry agent’s office. Fingerprints and police checks are required for applicants 12+.
- British Columbia:
- Legal Change of Name Application (Form VSA 529), updated in September 2024.
- Separate adult and family forms are available. Every applicant aged 12+ must complete a criminal record check before submission.
- Manitoba:
- Application for a Legal Change of Name, with a Fingerprinting Information Sheet.
- Submit the application first; fingerprints are done later upon instruction from Vital Statistics.
- Quebec:
- Managed by the Directeur de l’état civil (DEC).
- Applicants begin with a preliminary application, may require publication of notice, and must show “serious reasons.”
- Residency of at least one year is required.
Other provinces and territories (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut) use similar “Change of Name” forms available through their Vital Statistics offices. Indigenous residents in some territories may qualify for fee waivers when reclaiming traditional names.
Supporting Documents
Along with your application, you must include several proofs and declarations. Requirements vary slightly by province, but the typical package includes:
- Proof of Identity: Government-issued photo ID such as a passport, driver’s licence, or provincial ID. Some provinces require two pieces; photocopies may need to be notarized, and an Affidavit of Identity may be required.
- Proof of Status in Canada:
- Birth certificate (for Canadian-born applicants).
- Citizenship certificate or permanent resident card (for those born outside Canada).
- Valid long-term immigration documents (work or study permit), where applicable.
- Proof of Residency: Your provincial address for the past 12 months (Ontario) or 3 months (B.C.), plus supporting documents like a utility bill if your ID lacks an address.
- Birth Certificate(s): Required for every person whose name will change, including children.
- Marriage or Divorce Certificates: Needed if your name change relates to a marital situation or to prove your current legal name.
- Custody or Guardianship Documents: Required for child applications to confirm who has the authority to approve the name change.
- Previous Change of Name Certificates: If you’ve legally changed your name before, include proof of the earlier change.
- Criminal Record Check and Fingerprinting:
- B.C. and Alberta: mandatory for all applicants 12+.
- Manitoba: done after initial approval.
- Ontario: only for applicants with certain criminal circumstances.
- Timing matters — most provinces require fingerprints or police checks dated within 30 days of submitting the application.
- Consent Documents: Required for spouses (if applicable) or other parents/guardians in child applications.
- Statutory Declaration/Affidavit: Signed before a commissioner or notary, confirming all information is accurate and the change isn’t for fraudulent purposes.
- Certified Translations: For any documents not in English or French, include a certified translation.
Quick Checklist:
✔ Completed application form (latest version)
✔ Birth certificate(s)
✔ Photo ID
✔ Proof of Canadian status and residency
✔ Consent or custody documents (if needed)
✔ Previous name change certificate (if any)
✔ Criminal record check/fingerprint confirmation (if required)
✔ Statutory declaration notarized or commissioned
✔ Payment (cheque, money order, or card authorization)
Fees and What Happens Next
Fees vary by province but generally range from $100 to $150. Examples as of November 2025:
- Ontario: $137 for adults; $22 for each additional child.
- B.C.: $137 for the main applicant; $27 per additional person.
- Alberta: $120 government fee (plus registry service fee of $20–60).
- Manitoba: $120.07 for the first person; $70.07 for each additional family member.
- Québec: About $136 total through the Directeur de l’état civil.
Additional costs may include fingerprinting ($25–75), notary or commissioner fees, translations, and postage.
After approval, you’ll receive:
- A Change of Name Certificate — your official proof of name change.
- An updated birth certificate (if you were born in the same province).
- A notice published in the provincial Gazette (unless exempt for privacy reasons).
This certificate becomes your new legal identity document for updating records with banks, government agencies, employers, and others.
Step by Step: How to Fill in the Name Change Application
Filling out a legal name change application is a formal process governed by provincial and territorial legislation, such as the Change of Name Act (Ontario) and the Name Act (British Columbia). While the specific forms differ across Canada, the procedure follows a consistent legal structure: completing an official application, attaching the correct supporting documents, and submitting the package to your Vital Statistics office. The following steps explain how to properly prepare, complete, and submit your application so it meets all legal requirements and avoids delays.
Step 1: Obtain the correct form and instructions
Download or pick up the official application form for your province or territory. Review the accompanying instruction guide so you understand who must sign, what documents must be submitted, and where to send your application. This is required under provincial legislation (for example, in Ontario under the Change of Name Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.7).
Ensure you’re using the most current version of the form — submitting an outdated form may result in rejection (for example, in B.C. under the Name Act [R.S.B.C. 1996] c. 328 with amendments via the Name Amendment Act (No. 2), 2024).
Step 2: Provide your current legal identity
Enter your full current legal name exactly as shown on your birth certificate or primary ID. Provide your residential address and how long you have lived in the province (e.g., Ontario requires at least 12 months under C.7). Include your date and place of birth, marital status, parents’ names, and any previous legal names or aliases. These details help the registrar link and verify your identity.
Step 3: Specify your new name
Write your full proposed new name clearly and precisely. Many forms separate the given name and surname. Ensure spelling matches exactly how you want it to appear in the registrar’s records. If the change involves a single-name Indigenous reclamation or other special case, follow the detailed instructions. Note: In most jurisdictions, legal change under the legislation (e.g., B.C.’s Name Act section 4) requires the use of official process rather than the informal assumption of a name.
Step 4: Complete consent and witness sections if applicable
If your application requires spousal notification or consent for a child’s name change, complete those sections. In Ontario, the Change of Name Act (s. 5) governs child name changes, including notice to other persons with legal rights. For adult applications, ensure any guarantor or residency witness section is completed where required. Do not sign the statutory declaration yet — leave this until you meet the official.
Step 5: Assemble required supporting documents
You must attach documentation such as: government-issued photo ID; proof of Canadian status (birth certificate, citizenship certificate or PR card); proof of residency; original birth certificates for every person whose name will change; marriage or divorce certificates if relevant; custody or guardianship orders for child applications; previous change of name certificates if applicable; and certified translations of any documents not in English or French. These requirements stem from the legislation and regulations in each province (for example, B.C.’s Name Act section 7 and the Name Regulation 230/2024).
Step 6: Complete a criminal record check or fingerprints if required
Some provinces have statutory restrictions. For example, B.C.’s Name Act (as amended by Name Amendment Act (No. 2), 2024) prohibits legal name changes for persons with certain criminal convictions. It requires criminal-record checks for applicants aged 12+ within 30 days of application. In other jurisdictions (e.g., Ontario), the Change of Name Act includes declaration statements regarding criminal history.
Step 7: Sign in front of an authorized official
Bring the completed form and your ID to a commissioner for oaths or a notary public. Sign the statutory declaration and any required consents in their presence so they can witness and seal the document. This step gives the application its legal force under the governing act.
Step 8: Review everything thoroughly
Before you submit, verify: every required field is filled; names are consistent throughout; all required signatures are present; all supporting documents are included; and payment is correct. Incorrect or missing items may delay your application under the procedures set out by each vital-statistics office.
Step 9: Submit your application correctly
Submit the application either by mail, in person at a designated office, or via online process where available. For example, Ontario allows submission to ServiceOntario, and B.C. allows beginning online, then mailing print forms. Retain proof of submission (receipt, tracking number) as safeguards.
Step 10: Await processing and final documents
After submission, the registrar will review your application, documents, and consents. Processing times vary (e.g., B.C. reports ~24 weeks on average). Once approved, you’ll receive a Change of Name Certificate (and, where applicable, an amended birth certificate). Confirm the certificate’s accuracy immediately and use it to update your identity records.
Get your paperwork submission-ready. RunSensible Forms auto-organizes your name change forms, attachments, and signatures so you can file with confidence.
After You’ve Changed Your Name: Updating Your Records
Once your name change is legally approved and you have your Change of Name Certificate (and updated birth certificate if applicable), you must update your information across all major government, financial, professional, and personal records. This ensures your new name is recognized consistently and prevents issues when proving your identity.
Government Identity and Vital Records
Begin by updating your core government records. Visit Service Canada to update your Social Insurance Number (SIN); the number does not change, but your new legal name must be recorded for employment and tax purposes. Update your driver’s licence, provincial ID, and health card at your province’s licensing office, as most provinces require this update within a set timeframe, often within 30 days. Renew your passport with your new name before any international travel, since the name on your passport must match airline tickets. If you are a naturalized Canadian citizen or permanent resident, also update your citizenship certificate or PR card so your federal immigration identity aligns with your new legal name.
Financial and Legal Records
Next, update your financial accounts and legal documents. Bring your Change of Name Certificate and updated ID to your bank to change the name on all accounts, credit cards, investments, mortgages, and loans. Banks usually issue new cards and report your updated name to credit bureaus automatically, but it’s still wise to review your Equifax and TransUnion reports after a few months. Notify your employer so payroll, benefits, tax slips, and workplace systems reflect your new name. CRA generally updates your name through SIN records, but you can confirm through CRA My Account. Update your insurance policies—auto, home, life, and health—and consider updating your will, power of attorney, and beneficiary designations to avoid future confusion.
Service Providers and Personal Accounts
Update the name on your utility accounts, phone and internet service, subscription services, and any accounts tied to recurring billing. Contact your doctor, dentist, pharmacy, and any clinics you visit so your medical and billing records match your new name. Students and graduates should notify their school or university to update student records or alumni files, especially if future transcripts or verifications may be needed. If you hold a regulated professional licence or certification, notify the issuing body promptly, as many require your licence to match your legal identity.
Digital Presence, Daily Use, and Transition Tips
Update your email signature, professional profiles, and online accounts to reflect your new name. Many people temporarily note “formerly [Old Name]” during the transition so colleagues and clients can adjust. Keep a digital copy of your Change of Name Certificate handy; it serves as proof if a system still shows your old name. Expect a short period where some records display both names, as updates across organizations can take time. Once your major IDs and accounts are updated, your new name will become the default everywhere, and your Change of Name Certificate should be stored safely as the permanent link between your old and new identity.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Delays
Even small errors in a name change application can cause long delays or a complete rejection. The issues below are the ones applicants encounter most often, along with practical ways to avoid them.
-
Using Outdated Forms or Incorrect Payment
Submitting an older version of the application form is one of the most common reasons for refusal. Provinces update their forms regularly, and outdated versions are often returned without processing. Always download a fresh copy from your provincial website and check the form number and revision date. Payment mistakes also create immediate delays. These include wrong fee amounts, missing payments, incorrect payee information, or credit cards that cannot be charged. Confirm the current fee schedule, complete the payment section carefully, and make sure your method of payment is valid.
-
Missing Documents, Missing Signatures, or Uncommissioned Declarations
Many applications are delayed because the required documents were not included. Missing birth certificates, proof of status, residency evidence, previous change-of-name certificates, or custody and consent documents will stop the file. Missing signatures are another major problem. This includes your own signature, the signatures of spouses when required, and the signatures of parents or guardians for child applications. A common mistake is signing the statutory declaration at home instead of before a commissioner or notary. This makes the form invalid. Use a detailed checklist, gather all documents before submitting, verify every signature field, and always complete the statutory declaration in front of an authorized official.
-
Not Meeting Residency Rules or Failing to Include Required Consents
Applications are sometimes denied because the applicant does not meet the residency requirement for that province. For example, Ontario requires twelve months of residency before you can apply. Submitting too early or applying in the wrong province leads to an automatic rejection. Consent issues are also a major cause of delay, especially for child applications. Most provinces require consent from all individuals with legal custody or a court order if consent cannot be obtained. In some case,s spouses must be notified or must sign specific parts of the form. Review residency requirements carefully and make sure every necessary consent document is completed before you submit the application.
-
Name Inconsistencies, Unacceptable Names, or Ignoring Special Requirements
Spelling or formatting inconsistencies between your application and your identification documents often cause verification problems. Even a missing middle name, hyphen, or accent mark can delay processing. Review the form line by line and copy names exactly as they appear on your documents. Some applications are refused because the proposed new name is not acceptable under provincial naming rules. This can happen if the name contains offensive content, unusual symbols, or formats that are not permitted. Some provinces have additional steps the applicant must follow, such as fingerprinting, a criminal record check, or publication of a notice. Missing or skipping any of these steps will put your file on hold. Check every requirement for your province and complete all special procedures within the required timeframes.
-
Poor Timing, Missed Steps, and Failing to Update Records After Approval
Processing is often delayed because applicants misunderstand timing requirements. Fingerprints may need to be completed within a specific window, or publication needs to occur before the application moves forward. Missing these deadlines forces the registrar to pause your file. After approval, another mistake is failing to update your identity records. If you do not update your driver’s licence, health card, passport, bank accounts, or employment records, you may experience problems when traveling or verifying your identity. Once you receive your Change of Name Certificate, update your primary identification first, then continue through financial, medical, employment, and service accounts to ensure your new legal name is recognized everywhere.
Special Scenarios and Additional Considerations
Not every name change follows the standard process. Some situations have alternative procedures, extra requirements, or special protections. The scenarios below outline how these circumstances affect the name change process and what you should expect.
Name Changes After Marriage or Divorce
In most provinces, you do not need a legal name change to take a spouse’s surname after marriage or to return to a prior name after divorce. You can update your identification by showing your marriage certificate, divorce certificate, or separation documents. Many choose the simple “assumption” or “resumption” process because it is faster, has no government fee, and does not alter your birth registration.
If you want more than a surname change, such as changing your first name or altering the structure of your full name, you must complete the legal name change process. Some provinces offer special forms for resuming a former surname, such as Ontario’s “Election to Resume Former Surname.”
In short, if you are only changing your last name due to marriage or divorce, you may not need a full legal name change unless you want the change reflected on your birth certificate or you are also changing your given names.
Immigrants, Permanent Residents, and Foreign Documents
If you are a permanent resident or naturalized citizen, you must update your IRCC documents after your provincial name change. Permanent residents need to apply for a new PR card issued under the new legal name. Work and study permits may need amendments, or you may need to carry your Change of Name Certificate with your old license until renewal.
Naturalized citizens who have a citizenship certificate in their old name can apply for an updated certificate. This process can take several months and requires detailed identity documentation. Once updated, you can then renew your passport and SIN records under your new name.
Refugees, protected persons, or individuals whose immigration status is tied closely to the identity provided at entry should seek legal advice before applying.
If you were born outside Canada, your foreign birth record does not update automatically. You may choose to update your foreign passport or national documents through your home country’s consulate, depending on their laws.
Children’s Name Changes and Parent or Guardian Requirements
Children’s name changes involve additional rules. Most provinces require consent from all individuals who have legal custody. If a parent cannot be located or refuses consent, a court order is usually required. Guardians with legal authority may apply, but they must provide formal proof of guardianship.
Children around age 12 or older typically must give written consent. Some provinces require a child’s own handwritten statement explaining why they want the change.
If you are changing the names of multiple children, each child must be treated as a separate legal person. Some provinces allow a combined application but still require full documentation and consent for each child.
In adoption scenarios, the child’s name is updated through the adoption order, so a legal name change application is not needed. For step-parent adoptions, the name change is completed through the adoption process as well.
Interprovincial, International, and Publication Considerations
If you were born in another Canadian province, your new name will be registered where you apply, and most provinces notify your birth province automatically. However, you may still need to request an updated birth certificate directly from your birth province afterward.
If you were born outside Canada, your home country’s records will not change automatically. You will generally use your Canadian Change of Name Certificate alongside your foreign birth certificate.
Most provinces publish name change notices in an official gazette. There are important exceptions. Individuals changing their name related to gender identity, minors, Indigenous name reclamation, or people with safety concerns may request an exemption from publication. This may require a written request or a court order, depending on the province.
Multiple Name Changes and Professional Licences
Some provinces restrict how frequently you can legally change your name or require a more substantial justification if you apply again soon after a previous change.
Professionals who hold a regulated licence, certification, or academic credential should notify the issuing body promptly. Some regulators require your licence to match your legal identity. Others allow you to continue using a professional name if your legal identity is documented correctly.
Don’t let the paperwork slow you down. RunSensible Forms helps you complete each form accurately and stay organized from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Changing your legal name in Canada is a meaningful decision, and the administrative process behind it can feel daunting at first. But when you understand the rules in your province and follow the required steps, the process becomes far more manageable. Throughout this guide, we broke down eligibility criteria, form requirements, supporting documents, fees, special scenarios, and post-approval updates so you have a complete picture of what to expect.
The most important lesson is preparation. Each province and territory has its own forms, fees, residency rules, and supporting requirements, so take time upfront to verify what applies to you. Using the correct and most recent forms, gathering every required document, and ensuring all signatures are properly witnessed will help you avoid the most common causes of delay. If fingerprints or police checks are required in your jurisdiction, build in extra time for processing. And if your situation involves exceptional circumstances, such as an Indigenous name reclamation, a minor’s name change, or a marriage-related name update, follow the specific procedures that apply to your case.
Once your name change is approved and your certificate arrives, your journey is only half complete. Updating your driver’s licence, health card, passport, SIN, bank accounts, employer records, and everyday accounts is essential to ensuring your new name is recognized consistently everywhere you go. A simple checklist can help you move through these updates methodically and stay organized during the transition period.
Ultimately, thousands of Canadians complete this process every year. While the paperwork may feel overwhelming, it is a well-established legal procedure designed to protect your identity and ensure a clear, verifiable record of your name. With the guidance in this article, careful attention to detail, and a bit of patience, you can navigate the process smoothly from start to finish.
Once your new documents arrive and your records are updated, take a moment to acknowledge the significance of the change. Congratulations in advance on taking this step.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a name change approved?
Processing times vary by province. Ontario usually completes straightforward applications in 6 to 8 weeks, while British Columbia averages around 24 weeks due to high demand. Alberta and Manitoba often take 6 to 12 weeks, and Quebec estimates roughly 90 business days. Always check current timelines, and remember that missing documents or pending steps, such as fingerprints, will delay your application.
How much does it cost to change my name?
Most provinces charge between 100 and 150 dollars for an adult application. Ontario charges 137 dollars, British Columbia charges 137 dollars, Alberta charges 120 dollars, and Manitoba charges 120.07 dollars for the first person. Fees often include one Change of Name Certificate. Additional costs may consist of new ID documents, fingerprinting, and publication fees. Many jurisdictions waive fees for Indigenous applicants reclaiming traditional names.
Can I choose any new name I want?
You generally have wide freedom, but with restrictions. Names cannot be chosen for fraudulent purposes, cannot be offensive, and must use standard characters. Numbers, symbols, and titles like Doctor or Sir are typically not allowed. Single names are permitted only when tied to recognized cultural traditions. Registrars may refuse names that are confusing or inappropriate, but standard personal names are usually approved without issue.
What if I make a mistake on the application form?
If you notice a mistake before submitting, correct it cleanly or complete a new form. If you discover an error afterwards, contact Vital Statistics immediately. Minor issues can sometimes be fixed quickly, but missing signatures or incomplete sections require resubmission. If an error appears on your final certificate, request a correction right away. Always review your full application before sending it.
Do I need to publish a notice of my name change in a newspaper or the Gazette?
Publication rules differ across provinces. Ontario and Manitoba automatically publish in the provincial Gazette. British Columbia no longer requires most publications and relies on criminal checks instead. Quebec posts notices online and at the courthouse. Some provinces still publish in their Gazette by default. Minors, transgender applicants, and individuals with safety concerns may qualify for privacy exemptions.
What happens if I do not update my other documents?
Your legal name becomes whatever appears on your Change of Name Certificate. Keeping old-name documents can create verification problems for banking, travel, employment, and government services. While there is no penalty for slow updates, mismatched identification often causes delays and confusion. Keep your certificate handy during the transition and gradually update all major records to your new legal name.
Sources
- IRCC – Changing the Name on Your Passport or Citizenship Documents
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/change-name.html - ESDC – Updating Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin/receiving-updating.html - CRA – Update Your Personal Information (Change of Name)
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/should-you-tell-cra-about-your-change-name.html - BC Vital Statistics – Legal Changes of Name
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/legal-changes-of-name - BC Adult Application for Change of Name (Form VSA 529)
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/forms/vital-statistics/vsa529_adult_fill.pdf - Ontario Government – Change of Name
https://www.ontario.ca/page/change-name - Ontario – Application to Change an Adult’s Name (Form 11155E)
https://forms.mgcs.gov.on.ca/dataset/bb9e0c19-8f5f-4333-b9f3-db1fbc25978a/resource/45fd14d3-0bfc-49bb-8df9-40ef281b9226/download/11155e.pdf - Ontario – Application to Change a Child’s Name (Form 11156E)
https://forms.mgcs.gov.on.ca/dataset/e62b64fe-533e-4b69-9891-7b9f14625155/resource/a496ac66-e96b-4751-8b38-859ec410d190/download/11156e.pdf - Ontario – Change of Name Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. C.7
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90c07 - Alberta – Legal Name Change (Vital Statistics)
https://www.alberta.ca/legal-name-change - Alberta Legal Name Change Information Guide (DVS3132G)
https://cfr.forms.gov.ab.ca/Form/DVS3132G - Manitoba Vital Statistics – Legal Change of Name
https://vitalstats.gov.mb.ca/change_of_name.html - Directeur de l’état civil (Québec) – Change of Name
https://www.etatcivil.gouv.qc.ca/en/change-name.html - BC Government – Indigenous Name Reclamation (TRC Call to Action 17)
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/legal-changes-of-name/reclamation-indigenous-names - Northwest Territories – Waiving Name Change Fees for Indigenous Applicants
https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/services/changer-votre-nom/waiving-change-name-fees - Indigenous Name Reclamation – BC (TRC Call to Action 17)
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/legal-changes-of-name/reclamation-indigenous-names
Contents
