The provincial government has introduced two pieces of legislation aimed at updating rules around naming standards for births, marriages, and legal name changes.
The Vital Statistics Amendment Act, 2025 and The Change of Name Amendment Act, 2025 propose changes intended to reflect Saskatchewan’s growing and diverse population. According to the Ministry of Health, the amendments would remove certain limitations and streamline processes for registering names and requesting name changes.
Proposed changes include:
• Allowing more than two surnames to be registered;
• Permitting single names, or mononyms, when culturally or religiously significant;
• Removing the requirement to provide proof that a spouse is aware of a name change request;
• Expanding the list of agencies notified of a name change, including law enforcement; and
• Giving the Registrar greater authority to issue certificates or make amendments without a court order.
The legislation also lays groundwork for future regulatory changes that would prevent individuals convicted of serious crimes from legally changing their name, a measure referenced in the 2025 Throne Speech.
Government officials say the amendments are supported by law enforcement and other agencies that rely on accurate identification. The changes would also align Saskatchewan’s rules with other jurisdictions in Canada. About 1,000 residents request a legal name change each year.
The legislation will take effect by order of the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
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