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Birth, adoption, death, marriage and divorce

Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) are currently operating in an unsettled job-action environment, resulting in mail delivery delays.

This postal service disruption will significantly impact The Vital Statistics Agency’s ability to provide services via mail or courier delivery services.

The Vital Statistics Agency continues normal business operations however, RUSH or COURIER orders placed after May 22, 2025, may not be delivered until after the postal service disruption is resolved. 

The Agency is not liable for delays or costs resulting from a mail service disruption – Fees for RUSH or COURIER service on orders placed after May 22, 2025, will not be refunded.

The Agency will continue to monitor and update this website with any changes to the Vital Statistics Agency’s service options that may result from a postal service disruption.

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Services and information topics

Birth and adoption

The Births section describes how to register your child’s birth, order birth documents, make changes to a birth record, and undertake genealogical research.

Marriage

Information on marriage registration and certificates. Find out how to marry in British Columbia, order a marriage certificate, change a marriage record, and search for a marriage licence issuer or marriage commissioner.

Death

Find out what to do when someone dies. Learn how to register a death in British Columbia and order a death certificate. Get information about wills and estates.

Separation and divorce

Every year in British Columbia, thousands of couples decide not to live together anymore. The process of ending a relationship is not an easy one, and it takes time to fully recover from a separation.

Legal changes of name

Changing your name is an important decision that can have far-reaching effects on your personal and business relationships. If you were born in Canada, a legal change of name also changes the name on your birth record. It’s important to understand the steps required in a legal name change, the cost, and the effect it will have on your life.

Statistics and reports

Access statistics and reports produced by the Vital Statistics Agency, including B.C.'s most popular baby names, annual reports, quarterly digests, and marriage reports.

Order certificates and copies

This page lets you to download forms relating to births, adoption, marriage, death, legal changes of name, and genealogy. You can also order birth certificates, marriage certificates and death certificates.