Name change in Ontario

💡 What is a legal name change?

A Legal Name Change is a procedure authorized by the Government of Ontario that allows individuals aged 16 and over to change their official name on their birth certificate and other identification documents.

Once completed, you will receive a Change of Name Certificate and, if born in Ontario, a new birth certificate with your new name. When your legal name change is approved, you will automatically receive a Change of Name Certificate. This is official legal proof that your name has been changed, stating:

• • Previous name
  • New name
  • Effective date of name change

If you were born in Ontario, you are automatically issued a new Birth Certificate with your new name. Therefore, you do not need to apply separately for a new birth certificate after changing your name. ServiceOntario will automatically issue a new birth certificate (short form - without parents' names). If you want a birth certificate with parents' information (long form) or a certified copy of your birth registration, you must apply separately.

If you were born outside of Ontario (in another province or country), you will need to contact the civil registry office of that province or country to apply for a new birth certificate with the changed name if you wish.

Other documents, including your driver's license, PR card, and Canadian passport, will need to be resubmitted after you receive your name change certificate.

📅 When should you change your name?

You can change your name when:

• Your name is misspelled, difficult to use, or you want to correct it.
• You get married, divorced, or want to identify them as part of the family.
• You can change your name based on cultural, religious, or gender factors.
• You want to merge your Canadian name with your name used in another country.

🧭 KeyApply's services include

When you book a name change service in Ontario through KeyApply, you can choose from the following services:

• The detailed, step-by-step instructions in Vietnamese will be sent via email.
• Document verification assistance: simply follow the instructions to prepare the necessary paperwork.
• Signature notarization (Commissioner for Taking Affidavits) is performed by KeyApply.
• Translation

⚖️ Benefits of using KeyApply service

• The instructions are entirely in Vietnamese, easy to understand, and accurate according to the latest ServiceOntario regulations.
• Minimize errors that could lead to applications being returned or delayed.
• No need to find a notary or translator yourself - KeyApply handles all the legal verification steps.
• Save time and ensure your documents meet the requirements of the Change of Name Act (Ontario).

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