Name Change Application
Application for Change of Name
Timeline
Apply as needed - no deadline
Handled by
Vital Statistics
Available
Legally change your name in Nova Scotia. Required for updating all identification documents.
In Plain Language:
Change your legal name officially.
You May Qualify If:
- Nova Scotia residents
- People 19 years of age or older
- People who meet name change requirements
You May NOT Qualify If:
- People under 19 (different process for minors)
- People with certain criminal convictions
- People trying to avoid legal obligations
Requirements Checklist:
- □Nova Scotia residency
- □19+ years old
- □Criminal record check
- □Birth certificate
- □Photo identification
- □Completed application
- □Application fee
Examples:
- • A person who wants to change their name for personal reasons
- • A person who wants to change their name after marriage or divorce
Name changes are serious legal matters. Make sure you understand all requirements and implications before applying.
⚠️ Not getting criminal record check
A criminal record check is required - get it before applying
⚠️ Not updating all documents
After name change, update ALL your identification documents - driver's license, health card, passport, SIN, etc.
⚠️ Choosing a name that's not allowed
Some names are not allowed (offensive, too long, etc.). Check requirements before applying.
⚠️ Not notifying important services
Update your name with banks, insurance, employers, and other important services
What Happens Next
- Your application will be reviewed
- Vital Statistics will verify your information
- You may need to publish a notice of name change
- Your application will be approved or denied
- If approved, you'll receive a Change of Name Certificate
Check Your Status
Check status onlineWhat to Keep
- • Change of Name Certificate
- • Application confirmation
- • Receipt of payment
- • All updated identification documents
Follow-Up Actions
- □Update your driver's license with new name
- □Update your health card with new name
- □Update your passport with new name
- □Update your SIN with new name
- □Update bank accounts, insurance, and employment records
- □Notify all important services of your name change
Expected Timeline:
Processing takes 6-8 weeks. After approval, you'll receive your Change of Name Certificate and must update all your identification documents.
Select your region from the header to see local resources and service centers.