Name-change applicants may need fingerprint-based criminal record checks when identity cannot be verified electronically

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

A new section added to the regulation creates a process for cases where the Ministry of the Solicitor General cannot determine through its usual means whether a name-change applicant falls within a restricted category under the Act. In those cases, the normal rule that the Registrar General must process the application promptly is paused. Instead, the Registrar General must request a fingerprint-based criminal record check certified by the RCMP, sourced from the national repository of criminal records. The applicant's change-of-name application will not proceed until that check is received, shared with the Ministry, and the Ministry confirms the person is not in the restricted category. This affects applicants whose identity or status cannot be confirmed through standard electronic checks.

Who this affects: individuals applying for a legal change of name · Registrar General of Ontario · Ministry of the Solicitor General