Legal changes of name
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.
We are currently experiencing very high application volumes. The average legal change of name application takes approximately 24 weeks to process (this does not include mailing time).
If you have any questions or concerns, and it has been 16 weeks from the time you submitted your application, please email us at VSCONAStatusUpdates@gov.bc.ca and allow 2-3 business days for a response.
At this time, we are unable to guarantee processing times.
Applications that are missing information, documentation, payment or are using an outdated form, may be further delayed.
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.
Services and information topics
Reclamation of Indigenous Names
As a residential school survivor or their family member, or an individual impacted by the Sixties Scoop, you may be eligible to receive a legal change of name through the Vital Statistics Agency, including a waiver of legislated fees.
Legal Change of Name Application
Find information about who can apply for a legal change of name, what steps are required, and what documentation you need to submit with your application.
Certificate of Change of Name
The Certificate of Change of Name is the document you will show whenever you are asked for proof of your legal change of name. For instance, you will need to produce this when changing your name on your driver’s licence.