I.D. Guide

If you need to update the name on your permanent resident card, you must apply for a new card (reissued cards are not available for name changes). Complete the PR Card Application (IMM-5445) to start the process. The fee is $50.

Use the Permanent Resident Card Document Checklist (IMM-5644) to confirm which documents you need. Include the completed checklist with your application, along with the following:

• Copy of the receipt showing the fees paid
• Photos, meeting the photo specifications (PDF)
  • If applying online: upload 1 photo (front and back) taken within 12 months. For digital photos, upload a confirmation from the photo studio if required
  • If applying by paper: provide two (2) identical photos taken within 12 months, in a small envelope with the applicant's name written on it (no staples or paper clips)
• Documents showing you meet the residency obligation for the past 5 years
• A copy of one of the following:
  • Your valid passport or travel document
  • The passport or travel document you had when you became a permanent resident (include the page stamped on arrival, if applicable)
  • Certificate of identity or travel document issued by IRCC or a foreign country (The copy should show document type and number, issue and expiry date, your name, photo, and date of birth.)
• Change of name certificate
• Your current PR card (if renewing or replacing)

If your PR card was lost, include a copy of a police report or incident number.

If you cannot obtain a primary identity document, provide:

• A copy of any identity document issued outside Canada before you came to Canada, or
• A statutory declaration signed by you attesting to your identity and a statutory declaration also attesting to your identity signed by:
  • a person who knew you before you came to Canada (such as a family member), or
  • an official of an organization representing people from your country of nationality or past residence.

All statutory declarations must be certified by an accredited commissioner of oaths. If submitting a statutory declaration, also provide a letter explaining the exceptional circumstances and why you cannot obtain identity documents.

Any document not in English or French must be accompanied by:

• The English or French translation
• An affidavit from the translator (if not a Canadian certified translator)

Translations must not be done by the applicant or their family members.

• Temporary Residence Permits cannot be amended to reflect changes made in Canada (e.g., a name change completed in Ontario). Your temporary residence permit must match your passport.
• If your name change document was issued outside of Canada, you must also provide a provincial ID in your new name (such as a driver's license, photo card, or health card).