How to change your last name in BC after you’re married - 2026 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!
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 or Creating a New Last Name
Who to Contact (Complete Checklist)
Frequently Asked Questions
Option 1: Taking Your Partner's Last Name
Before you can officially change your name anywhere, you need proof of marriage - so, the first step is to get your marriage certificate. So, how does that work?
After you get married and 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.
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.
My couples love it because it takes the overwhelm out of the process. Plus, it has a money-back guarantee, so you really can't go wrong!
Option 2: Hyphenating or Creating a New Last Name
If you want to create a new name in married life, or hyphenate your names, then you do need to go through the legal name change process.
Here is the government’s website, which provides more information on legal name changes in BC.
Here's what's involved:
Fill out the Legal Change of Name Application.
Get fingerprinting
Complete a criminal record check
Submit your original birth certificate (your new legal name will be added to it)
Wait approximately 16 weeks for processing (that wait period is current at the time I wrote this blog post).
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 at 604.683.7151 or 1.800.663.7100. They’ll send you a confirmation letter in the mail, then you can go to an ICBC driver licensing office to finish the process.
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 + for your SIN: You’ll also need to change your name attached to your Social Insurance Number with the Canada Revenue Agency. Click the link and fill out the questions to see what documents you need, and start the process online.
Canadian Passport / PR card: You can not use a passport renewal process for a name change, it needs to be a new Adult General Passport Application form. For both a Canadian passport or PR card, you can start the process online.
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!
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 licence 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 (February 2026) but always keep in mind that things can change, so it’s best to cross reference it with your own research.
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.
