Description: This page details the required process for legally changing a name. Here you will find a description of the four types of legal name changes available, an overview of required information, and a description of associated fees.

Legal Name Change

How can I legally change a name?

There are 4 types of legal name changes available:

Adult Surname (with or without given name)
Adult Given Name (only)
Child Surname (with or without given name)
Child Given Name (only)

To legally change your own name, you must be 19 years of age or older.

If you are under 19 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must complete the process.

All surname changes must be published in the Newfoundland Gazette. Exceptions are as follows:

When the applicant would be unduly prejudiced or embarrassed by the publication
The change of surname applied for is of a minor character
The applicant has been commonly known under the surname applied for

Fees are as follows:

Newfoundland Gazette $11.40
Name Change $25.00
New Birth Certificate $20.00

The following documents are required:

Published copy of the notice in the Gazette (if changing a surname)
Birth certificate in the old name (a baptism certificate is acceptable if you were born in Newfoundland and Labrador and do not possess a birth certificate)
Proper applications from each name change package as required.

In order to legally change your name in Newfoundland and Labrador, you must ordinarily be a resident of Newfoundland for at least 6 months. If otherwise, you must apply in your province of residence.

Information packages are available at Vital Statistics.

For more information, call (709) 729-3308.