Birth, adoption, death, marriage and divorce

Important Service Update from the Vital Statistics Agency:

We are currently experiencing longer-than-usual processing times. Find out more about recent service disruptions.

Service location change:

The Vital Statistics Agency (VSA) office at 250-605 Robson Street will permanently close on November 14, 2025.

Starting November 17, 2025, VSA kiosks and services will be available at Service BC, 400-5021 Kingsway, Burnaby.

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Legal changes of name application

Services and information topics

Birth and adoption

Learn what to do after the birth of a child or when adopting in B.C.

Marriage

Learn what is required to get legally married in B.C.

Death

Find out what to do when someone dies in B.C.

Separation and divorce

Learn about family law in B.C. and explore your options during separation or divorce.

Legal changes of name

Learn the legal name change process, costs and impacts to your life.

Statistics and reports

Access statistics and reports on baby names, births, adoptions, marriages and deaths in B.C.

Order certificates and copies

Download or order documentation for births, adoptions, marriages, deaths, name changes or genealogy.

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Service BC

To complete transactions in person, find a Service BC location near you.

Go to Service BC

Online certificate ordering system

Apply online to the Vital Statistics Agency for certificates, certified registration copies and extracts accessible to all British Columbians.

Vital Statistics forms

We understand that requesting vital documents such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, or changing your name or gender, is often tied to deeply personal and important life moments.

Due to recent service disruptions, including the BCGEU job action and rotating Canada Post strike, we are currently experiencing longer-than-usual processing times. Our team is working diligently to catch up and prioritize urgent requests. If your situation is time-sensitive, please contact us directly so we can support you as best we can.

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

Need help or have an urgent request?

Email Vital Statistics or call 1-888-876-1633.

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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.