Name Change Application Process in British Columbia (BC)
                      
Name Change Application Process in
British Columbia (BC)
 
By: Sekcheck Fingerprinting Canada
https://sekcheck.ca
                                                                                         
                                                                                        Address: 255 – 13711 72 Ave, 
Surrey BC V3W 2P2
Phone: +1 866 549 7779
E-mail: [email protected]
Purpose of a Name Change
There are several reasons why someone might seek to change
their name, including:
 Marriage or Divorce: After marriage or divorce, 
individuals may wish to adopt their spouse's surname or revert 
to their maiden name.
 Personal Preference: Some people choose to change 
their name to reflect a personal identity, cultural affiliation, or to 
correct the spelling of their name.
 Legal Reasons: In some cases, individuals may need to 
change their name to avoid confusion or due to legal 
requirements, such as witness protection or to avoid a name 
that is associated with a criminal record.
 Gender Transition: Transgender individuals often change
their names to better align with their gender identity.
Regardless of the reason, the Name Change Process in BC 
ensures that the change is legally recognized and that all 
necessary documents are updated accordingly.
Legally Change Name in British Columbia (BC)
The name change application process in British Columbia 
involves several steps, and it is important to follow each one 
carefully to ensure that your name change is legally 
recognized. Here’s a detailed guide to the process:
1. Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for a name change, you must ensure that you 
meet the eligibility criteria set by the British Columbia 
government:
 Residency: You must be a resident of British Columbia.
 Age: If you are 19 years of age or older, you can apply for
a name change for yourself. If you are under 19, a parent or 
legal guardian must apply on your behalf.
 Criminal Record Check: You must undergo a criminal 
record check as part of the name change process.
2. Gather Required Documents
To complete your name change application, you will need to 
gather the following documents:
 Completed Application Form: Obtain and complete the 
legal change of name application form, available from the BC 
Vital Statistics Agency.
 Identification Documents: Provide copies of your birth 
certificate, passport, driver’s license, and any other relevant 
identification.
 Criminal Record Check: Submit the results of a criminal 
record check, which can be obtained from your local police 
department or through an accredited fingerprinting agency like 
SekCheck.
 Marriage or Divorce Certificate (if applicable): If your 
name change is related to marriage or divorce, you will need to 
provide a copy of your marriage or divorce certificate.
3. Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can
submit your name change application:
 In Person: You can submit your application in person at a
Service BC Centre. Be sure to bring all required documents 
and the application fee.
 By Mail: If you prefer, you can mail your completed 
application form and documents to the BC Vital Statistics 
Agency.
4. Pay the Application Fee
There is a fee associated with the name change application 
process. This fee covers the processing of your application and
the issuance of a new birth certificate with your updated name. 
The fee amount can vary, so it’s important to check the current 
rates on the BC government website or inquire directly with the 
authorities.
5. Processing Time
The Name Change Process in BC typically takes several 
weeks to complete. Processing times may vary depending on 
the volume of applications and the complexity of your case. On 
average, you can expect the process to take between 4 to 6 
weeks from the time your application is received.
6. Receive Your New Documents
Once your application has been processed and approved, you 
will receive your new birth certificate with your updated name. 
You can then use this certificate to update your other 
identification documents, such as your passport, driver’s 
license, and social insurance number.
The name change application process in BC is a well-defined
procedure that ensures your name change is legally recognized
and that all relevant documents are updated accordingly. 
Whether you’re changing your name due to marriage, personal 
preference, or any other reason, it’s important to follow the 
steps outlined by the BC government to avoid any delays or 
complications.
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