How to Legally Change My Name in Canada
Changing your name in Canada is a complex process. In fact, it is not just one process; it is a several small ones that you need to take care of one by one. There is also a chance that years from now you will still be changing your registered name with one organization after another because it is likely that you won't remember every single organization you have ever come across in one go. You need to be really sure that you want this because changing your name back will be just as complicated.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Consult the official government website of the Canadian province or territory where you live. The process of changing your name differs depending on which province you live in, how old you are and the purpose of your name change. The links in the Resources section will lead you to the websites of provincial and territorial governments.
For an adult over 16 years of age who has lived in Ontario for at least 12 months, a name change involves filling out application forms, gathering documents and mailing them in with an application fee (currently $137) to the Office of the Registrar General. Allow six to eight weeks for the application to be processed.
-
2
Obtain a change of name certificate after your application has been processed and approved. In Ontario, this certificate is automatically given to all successful name change candidates.
-
-
3
Apply for a new birth certificate bearing your new name. If you were born in Ontario and apply for the change there, this document will be issued at the end of your name change process. Otherwise, contact the government of your place of birth to apply for a new birth certificate.
-
4
Apply for a new Canadian passport if you plan to travel abroad. You cannot get a new passport with your new name on it through the Simplified Passport Renewal Process. You must apply for a new one by submitting the application form, supporting documents and applicable fees to Passport Canada (http://www.ppt.gc.ca/). In two to four weeks you will receive your new passport by mail. You may also pick up your passport in person in 10 business days. Urgent express services are also available.
-
5
Update your Social Insurance Number (SIN) card. You may visit your nearest Service Canada Centre with your documents and receive your new SIN immediately. Your card will arrive in the mail within 10 business days.
You may also apply by mail and receive your new card within 20 business days. If you live in New Brunswick you may be able to apply by phone.
-
6
Inform the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) of your name change as soon as possible. Call 1-800-959-8281 if you change only your first or last name. Mail or fax your documents to your tax center if you change both your first and last name. Include your name change certificate, SIN and signature.
-
7
Consult the government organization responsible for health services in your province or territory to obtain a new health card with your new name on it.
If you live in Ontario, you will need to visit an office of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care with a completed Change of Information form and supporting documents to do this.
-
8
Refer to the government agency responsible for transportation in your province or territory to get a new driver's license.
In Ontario, you will need to notify the Ministry of Transportation within six days of your name change. Take the appropriate documents and your current license to a Driver and Vehicle License Issuing Office. You will be photographed and given a temporary license. A permanent new license will be mailed to you shortly.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit canada map image by Vladislav Gajic from Fotolia.com
