Eligibility: Applicants must be 16+, residents of Ontario for 12 months, with specific criteria for minors and married individuals.
Additional Docs: Foreign nationals and others born outside Canada may need to confirm entry name.
Considerations: Choose new name carefully, updating documents is time-consuming.
Processing Time: Varies, typically 6-8 weeks, longer in some cases.
Legal Assistance: Name change lawyers can provide tailored guidance for a fee.
FAQs
Who can apply for a name change in Ontario?
Individuals aged 16 or older who have lived in Ontario for 12 months are eligible.
Is a specific reason needed for a name change?
No, Ontario does not require one.
How long does processing typically take?
6 to 8 weeks on average.
Can urgent requests be processed faster?
Yes, for certain situations like adoption or immigration matters.
Can foreign nationals change their names in Ontario?
Yes, but they may need to confirm their entry name.
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