How to Legally Change Names in Canada
Legally changing your name in Canada varies by province. The Vital Statistics Division of your province's Department of Health and Social Services can provide you with all the information and forms you need. They are also an excellent source of information if you have questions. Regardless, changing your name in Canada is relatively easy if you meet the following requirements.
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Instructions
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Check the Vital Statistics Division of the Department of Health and Social Services if you are a resident of the Northwest Territories or Nunavut. These provinces have not compiled their name change requirements. As such, their name change requirements could differ from the information below. You can reach the Northwest Territories by calling 1-800-661-0830. Nunavut can be reached by calling 1-867-645-8002.
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Meet the residency requirements. Before you can change your name, you must meet certain residency requirements. These differ according to province. In British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, the time period is three consecutive months. In Ontario and Quebec, the time period is one year. There is no specific residence period for Alberta or New Brunswick.
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Be of legal age. This also varies depending on which Canadian province you are changing your name in. In British Columbia and New Brunswick, the age is 19. In Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Quebec, the age is 18. In Ontario, the age is 16.
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Pick a name that will not cause confusion or be used for fraudulent or other improper purposes. For example, you cannot choose a new name to avoid your legal obligations. A confusing name might, for example,be a name that is unpronounceable and written in gibberish (such as Khjdaaolk). Use common sense and contact your Vital Statistics Division with any questions.
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Fill out a change of name application and pay the required fee. Applications are found at your local Vital Statistics office. Fees vary by province. In British Columbia, the fee is $137. In Alberta, the fee is $120. In Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and Quebec, the fee is $125. In Manitoba, the fee is $100. In Ontario, the fee is $137. All fees are in Canadian dollars.
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