How to change your last name in BC after you’re married - 2027 guide
One of the most common questions my couples ask me is "how do we change our last name in BC after we're married?" While not everyone chooses to change their name, if you've found yourself on this page, there's a good chance you're looking into it!
Fair question, because there are a few different processes depending on what name you want to use.
As a registered wedding officiant in British Columbia, I complete and submit marriage registrations for my couples throughout the year, so I'm very familiar with what happens between signing your marriage paperwork on the wedding day and receiving that all-important marriage certificate in the mail. For the parts that happen after that, I've cross-referenced this guide against current information from BC Vital Statistics, ICBC, Service Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency and Passport Canada. (Information can always change, so please check it’s still current. Last reviewed Sept 2026)
So, whether you're taking your partner's surname, combining your names, or creating something entirely new, here's how it works.
I'm going to walk you through everything you need to know about changing your last name in BC. Whether you're taking your partner's last name, hyphenating, or creating a brand new surname to start your family, let's get into it…
CONTENTS:
Option 1: Taking Your Partner's Last Name
Option 2: Hyphenating
Option 3: Creating a New Last Name
Who to Contact (Complete Checklist)
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo by Logan Swayze
Option 1: Taking Your Partner's Last Name
Assuming a last name vs a legal name change:
First, a quick distinction, because the terminology can get confusing.
In BC, if you take your spouse’s last name after marriage, or combine your surnames with a space or hyphen, this is generally called assuming a surname. You can update your identification to use your married surname without going through BC’s formal Legal Change of Name process. A legal change of name is different. This is the process you would generally use if you’re creating an entirely new surname, changing your first or middle name, or making another change that isn’t covered by assuming a married surname.
So, when people say they’re “legally changing their last name after marriage,” what they often actually mean is that they’re assuming their married surname and updating their identification. If one of you is simply taking the other person’s surname, or combining your existing surnames, the process is relatively straightforward.
But before you can start updating your name with most organizations, you’ll need proof of your marriage. So, step one: get your official marriage certificate.
How do you get a marriage certificate?
In BC, you can simply meet with a wedding officiant and two witnesses. It’s up to you if you want a larger wedding, a sweet and simple ceremony, or a quicker moment to get the legalities taken care of. (See my ceremony options here).
After you sign the legal papers with your wedding officiant, they'll file the marriage license with BC's Vital Statistics Agency. Then you wait 3-6 weeks for your official marriage certificate to arrive by mail.
Once you have that beautiful certificate in hand, you're ready to start.
After you have the marriage certificate:
You don't need to go through a formal "legal name change" process. You can simply start using your spouse's surname and update your documents using your marriage certificate as proof. Easy!
In BC, you have to contact each organization individually - so, contact ICBC, the passport office, your bank, and so on so forth…
To streamline that process, my hot tip is to use the Easy Name Change Kit - it costs $39 CAD and they estimate it saves you around eight hours of time. It includes all the forms, instructions, and contact information you need in one place. Disclaimer - I haven’t used it first hand, myself, but many of my couples have had great feedback, saying it takes the overwhelm out of the process. (Plus, it has a money-back guarantee, which is always nice)
Option 2: Hyphenating
The rules around hyphenating changed in May of 2026. While you used to have to go through the legal name change process, the most recent change allow you to simply assume your new name - a combination of both last names, separated by a space or hyphen. Similar to the first option, just wait for your marriage certificate to arrive, then you can get started on contacting each body / using the name change kit. Easy!
Option 3: Choosing a new last name
If you and your partner decide to take a different last name - here's what's involved:
Fill out the Legal Change of Name Application.
Gather the required supporting documents
Complete a criminal record check with electronic fingerprints. Your receipt must be dated within 30 days of Vital Statistics receiving your application.
Include payment. As of Sept 2026, the adult legal change of name fee is $137.
Submit your application package to Vital Statistics.
Wait for processing.
As of Sept 2026, BC says legal name changes can take approximately 24 weeks once Vital Statistics receives the application.
Checklist - Who to Contact
Once you have your marriage certificate (or Certificate of Change of Name), here's who you need to update (or grab that Name Change Kit I mentioned, and streamline the process).
BC Services Card: Contact Health Insurance BC first and have your name updated in their records. Once you've confirmed that update, visit an ICBC driver licensing office to update the physical card.
Drivers Licence / Car Insurance (ICBC):First, you’ll have to reach out to Health Insurance BC to ensure they’ve got your new name on file. Name changes have to be done in person, so you can book an appointment on their website.
Bank and credit cards: Speak to your bank directly as the process varies depending on the bank or credit card company.
With the CRA: You’ll also need to change your name with the Canada Revenue Agency. Click the link and fill out the questions to see what documents you need, and start the process online.
(PS - CRA requires newly married people to report their change in marital status by the end of the month following the month they married. For example, married in September means update CRA by October 31)Your SIN: Update your name Service Canada. . Your SIN number itself won't change, but the name attached to your SIN record needs to be updated. Service Canada currently allows you to do this online, by mail or in person.
Canadian Passport/ PR card: You'll need to apply for a new passport rather than simply renew your existing one. Importantly, the supporting ID you submit with your application needs to already show your new surname, so it can make sense to update your provincial photo ID first. You'll also provide supporting documentation such as your marriage certificate.
Other: Talk to your HR / office manager about the process of changing your last name at work. You may need to show your marriage certificate, but you’ll want to ensure they update any records so the name on your pay stubs and T4 matches what the CRA has. Make sure you tell your utility providers (mobile phone, wifi, BC hydro). Remember to update your name for voter registration. Oh, and maybe on Facebook!?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to change your last name in BC after marriage?
You do not have to, no! You can continue using the name you already have, if that is your preference!
What do I need to change my last name in BC after marriage?
You’ll need a copy of your marriage certificate. You will receive this in the mail after you sign the legal papers - it usually takes three weeks after signing to reach you (but may vary depending on Canada Post’s postage times).
Can I use an online service to change my last name?
If you’re like me, you might just find it easier to let someone else do the heavy lifting for you - then, you can focus on being married! I’ve come to trust this Easy Name Change website, as many of my couples have given me great feedback on it.
Can I make up a new last name?
In British Columbia, you are not required to take your spouse’s last name. You can choose to keep your maiden name, hyphenate your last names, or choose an entirely new last name! It’s up to you!
What name should I book my honeymoon under?
Book flights under the exact name that will appear on the passport you're travelling with. If you're honeymooning immediately after your wedding, it may be much easier to travel under your existing passport name and change everything once you're home.
Can I change my last name on my passport after marriage?
You can! You’ll need to apply for a new passport and submit a copy of your marriage certificate when doing so. Remember to book your honeymoon under whatever name will be on your passport at the time of flying.
Can you change our last name for us when we get married?
While I wish I could be of service, legally, you I am unable to. I can help you legally solemnize your marriage by marrying you, which will get you your marriage certificate. The rest is up to you, but I hope this blog post helps point you in the right direction!
I have another question...
Feel free to reach out to me at hello@seatoskyofficiant.com, but if it's about legalities, your best bet is to contact the Vital Statistics Agency directly:
Phone: 250-952-2681
BC Toll-Free: 1-888-876-1633
Note: All info is current at the time of writing (May 2026) but always keep in mind that things can change, so it’s best to cross reference it with your own research. I am a professional wedding officiant so ceremonies are my area of expertise, but I am not a lawyer, and this is not legal advice.
About the author:
Jude Douglass
Founder of Sea to Sky Officiant & Adventure Elopement Specialist
Jude is the heart behind Sea to Sky Officiant. Known for her warm, modern, and joyful ceremonies, Jude has guided countless couples through the special moment of becoming married. Her mission is simple: to make your wedding day feel exactly like you, while taking care of every detail so you can focus on the magic of the moment.
When she's not officiating weddings or planning epic elopements, you can find Jude hiking local trails, climbing, camping, or enjoying time with her partner in the beautiful Sea to Sky corridor.
