Election to Change the Name of a Child under the Age of 12

If the child is under the age of 12, was born in Ontario and the child’s name is being changed to a name the child could have been given when they were born (e.g. to a different first name or the last name to be changed to that of the mother, father or other parent as listed on the child’s birth registration), different forms are required and there is a different fee.

Fees

• The fee to amend a child’s name is $37.00
• An amended birth certificate may be applied for at the same time by mailing a Request for Birth certificate application and the applicable fees with the amendment application

Service Delivery Times

Where applications are complete and accurate the service delivery time is 6-8 weeks. Applications that require further verification will result in a delay in the stated service time.

How do I change my child’s name?

If you have read the above information and have determined that you require a form to change your child’s name, please contact us at 1-800-461-2156 or in Toronto at 416-325-8305 and be prepared to respond to the following questions:

1. Is the child under the age of 12? (Y/N)
2. Was the child born in Ontario? (Y/N)
3. Are the child’s first and/or middle name(s) being changed? (Y/N)
4. Is the child’s last name being changed to that of one of the parents currently listed on the child’s birth registration? (Y/N)
5. Is the child’s last name being changed to a step parent’s surname or other surname (that is not listed on the child’s birth registration)? (Y/N)

Custody & access

If you have sole custody, others may still be entitled to legal access to the child. If a court order is silent on the issue of access, you will be required to provide notice of the proposed name change to persons who might otherwise be entitled to legal access to the child (e.g. a parent who is named on the child's birth registration but does not have custody of the child).

Further Information

For more information about formal name changes, please see the frequently asked questions or contact the Office of the Registrar General toll free at 1-800-461-2156 or in Toronto at 416-325-8305.