Changing Names in Canada

[mapleleafmanny 11]

I officially crossed on my K1 visa in April. Got married in June. Am currently working on AOS paperwork; should be able to get it mailed out today or tomorrow.

Now comes the name change questions. It seems easy to do in the States. Just show the marriage certificate. I'll be able to easily change my US bank account and my SSN.

My real question is: how do I change my name in Canada and when?

I know I need to change:

- passport

- bank account

- drivers' license

- health card

- taxes/government

Is there a best time to make these name changes? It seems odd to change my passport name when my visa and I-94 is still in there.

Also, when do I change my official address in Canada too? I want to get a US driver's license for my State, but I'm worried that will "destroy" my Canadian drivers license. (which I still temporarily need to keep since I'm awaiting my car being sold in Canada). When can I get a US license?

I've looked extensively on google and visajourney, but maybe I've not searched with the right words lol. This is overwhelming, though I think if I got a step by step or more advice, it really would prove quite easy.

What do I need to do first?

[canada_socks 97]

I didn't change my name for anything in Canada. You are no longer a resident, so why would you need to change your name? Your health card is no longer valid either.

I think I did notify CRA, but I was also changing my address and cancelling my GST cheques.

Edited June 12, 2013 by canada_socks

[hikergirl 277]

http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/lifeevents/marriage.shtml

- Passport - I would wait until you are in Canada for a visit if possible as you will need a guarantor to sign off the photos etc. You must do the long form when changing your name. Plus, it’s cheaper from Canada. Also, I would personally recommend taking the application to a passport office in person because then you don’t run the risk of your original docs getting lost.

- Bank account. You may be able to send them a letter with a copy of your marriage certificate as proof. Give them a call.

- Health Card. You won’t be able to change your name because you left Canada to reside in another country and are no longer entitled to health care.

You can drive in Canada with a US Drivers License. I’m confused as to why you think you still need your Canadian one. When you can get your US one depends on the State you are living in.

Edited June 12, 2013 by hikergirl

[canada_socks 97]

This might do better in the Canada forum. Maybe a Mod can move it?

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

~ Thread moved from AOS from Family Based Visas to the regional forum for Canada- post is not about AOS but how to go about changing name in Canada ~

[Wishing-Waiting 2]

I found there was actually quite a lot that needed changing. Gov of Cda (several different departments actually handle name changes differently). I was able to change Revenue Canada over the phone. Then there is Employment Insurance (can't remember if that is separate dept). Canada Pension (Service Canada). One bank (TD) was ok with faxing docs - driver's licence and marriage cert. etc. Other bank (RBC) insisted on original docs. Visa or M/C is separate for whatever bank. Investment / RSP / Mutual Fund accounts separate from banks and some require original. I had property still in Canada so municipal accounts / electric / gas / water / prop tax. I haven't even done my passport yet. I am planning a trip back to Canada in July, so I will stop by the local govt office to check on getting new one in new married name. Good luck and happy trails !

[NikLR 13,227]

Also don't worry about your driver's licence and just get one in the USA.

[Autumnal 25]

I kept my maiden name for all my documents in Canada because it was about a hundred times easier, but your mileage may vary. For passports, do it in person. It's far faster and easier. Go in person to a passport office, it'll erase the need to have those documents sent to you. Alternately get a trusted relative to submit them.

[phel 3]

I am renewing my passport right now and I am having it changed to my married name (it's easy because I have a guarantor who is a notary and has been my co-worker for over 2 years.) Plus passport expires this July.

My bank account and CRA/Revenu Quebec are still in my maiden name. If I move back I'll change it and then get new health ins card and SIN.

Everything in the states says my married name.