How to change your last name in BC after you’re married
One of the most common questions my couples ask me is ‘how do we change our last name in BC after we are married?’ While not everyone does go ahead with changing their name, if you’ve found yourself on this page, there is a good change you’re looking into it! I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about changing your last name in BC! Whether you’re taking your partner’s last name, hyphenating, or creating a brand new last name to start your family, let’s get into it!
So how do I change my last name in BC after marriage?
In BC, you have to reach out to every individual body - so for example, ICBC for your driver’s licence, or the passport office for your passport… There are several of them!
I’ve got a hot tip for you: What I recommend to my couples is to use an Easy Name Change Kit - it is $39 (CAD), and they estimate it saves you around eight hours of time! It includes everything you need, so my couples find it’s the most convenient way to go! (Plus, it has a money back guarantee if you don’t love it, so you really can’t go wrong).
How to take your partners last name in BC?
Here is the government’s website, which provides more information on legal name changes in BC. Essentially, you can simply start assuming your spouse’s surname, updating any official documents with your Marriage Certificate as the supporting document (aka - proof). I’ll outline how to do this below.
What if you want to hyphenate or make a new last name?
If you want to create a new name in married life, or hyphenate your names, then you do need to go through the legal name change process. To start this process, fill out the Legal Change of Name Application. Then, you have to obtain (and pay for any fees for) fingerprinting, a criminal record check, and certification of documents. You’ll need your original birth certificate, as a legal name change will change the name on your birth certificate. Once you’ve completed the legal name change process (at the time of writing, applications are taking around 16 weeks to process) you’ll get a Certificate of Change of Name.
So, how do I reach out to each governing agency?
Again, I really think the easiest way to go is to grab an Easy Name Change Kit. There is a one-off upfront fee of $39, but it totally streamlines things! If you’re determined to reach out to everyone individually, here are some pointers in the right direction (Remember, you’ll need your marriage certificate as proof before you can start the process)
BC Services Card: Contact Health Insurance BC at 604.683.7151 or 1.800.663.7100. They’ll send you a confirmation letter in the mail, then you can go to an ICBC driver licensing office to finish the process.
Drivers Licence / Car Insurance (ICBC): First, you’ll have to reach out to Health Insurance BC to ensure they’ve got your new name on file. Name changes have to be done in person, so you can book an appointment on their website.
Bank and credit cards: Speak to your bank directly as the process varies depending on the bank or credit card company.
With the CRA + for your SIN: You’ll also need to change your name attached to your Social Insurance Number with the Canada Revenue Agency. Click the link and fill out the questions to see what documents you need, and start the process online.
Canadian Passport / PR card: You can not use a passport renewal process for a name change, it needs to be a new Adult General Passport Application form. For both a Canadian passport or PR card, you can start the process online.
Other: Talk to your HR / office manager about the process of changing your last name at work. You may need to show your marriage certificate, but you’ll want to ensure they update any records so the name on your pay stubs and T4 matches what the CRA has. Make sure you tell your utility providers (mobile phone, wifi, BC hydro). Remember to update your name for voter registration. Oh, and on Facebook!
Frequently Asked Questions
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You do not have to, no! You can continue using the name you already have, if that is your preference!
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You’ll need a copy of your marriage certificate. You will receive this in the mail after you sign the legal papers - it usually takes three weeks after signing to reach you (but may vary depending on Canada Post’s postage times).
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If you’re like me, you might just find it easier to let someone else do the heavy lifting for you - then, you can focus on being married! I’ve come to trust this Easy Name Change website, as many of my couples have given me great feedback on it.
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In British Columbia, you are not required to take your spouse’s last name. You can choose to keep your maiden name, hyphenate your last names, or choose an entirely new last name! It’s up to you!
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You can! You’ll need to apply for a new passport and submit a copy of your marriage licence when doing so. Remember to book your honeymoon under whatever name will be on your passport at the time of flying.
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Feel free to reach out to me (I’ll include my email below) but if it’s to do with legalities, it might be best to contact the Vital Statistics Agency directly. Their phone number is 250-952-2681. The toll-free in BC number is 1-888-876-1633.
My email is hello@seatoskyofficiant.com -
While I wish I could be of service, legally, you will be required to assist. I can help you legally solemnize your marriage by marrying you, which will get you your marriage certificate. The rest is up to you, but I hope this blog post helps point you in the right direction!
Note: All info is current at the time of writing (December, 2024) but always keep in mind that things can change, so it’s best to cross reference it with your own research.
Note: Cover photo by Candice Marie Photography.
