Declare Old Legally Changed Surname?

[Craddy]

Hi Everyone

I have done quite an extensive search for my question but can't seem to find an answer! Apologies if it has been asked before.

On the application form where it asks you to state your name and then 'any other names you have been known by i.e. alias, maiden name, etc' do you need to declare your birth name if your name was changed legally as a minor?

I am a Canadian Citizen sponsoring my British husband under family class from outside of Canada.

Long story short my mum legally changed our surnames when I was a teenager. The new birth certificate I was issued is in my changed name, all my legal documents are in my changed name, etc. My first passport was in my old name but that expired years ago and my current passport (used for this application) is in my new name. Do I need to list my old surname in answer to the above question? If so, and I don't have a change of name certificate will this affect my application? Lastly, should I just list the name and leave it at that or should I mention it in an accompanying letter?

Thank you so much!

 

[Helena R]

Hi there,

What an interesting and unusual question and situation

Although it´s not easy to know what to do, I think I would declare my old name just becasue names are one of, if not the main feature in the application. And not declaring something it´s a huge deal , specially something so important. I think you shoild mention this. You could write a letter explaining the change. It has to be ok like this. But imagine when they do their researches, your old name might come up and that could be a big problem. So... just say it.

Hope it helps

 

[Craddy]

Hello and thank you for your reply!

Yes it definitely does seem to be a less common situation based on what I've read on the forum!!

Okay that makes sense. Luckily my mum just informed me she's managed to hunt down our name change certificate - phew! - so I will include this for sure in addition to a letter.

Thanks again!!!

 

[Helena R]

Well, that´s great , just include that and you´re good to go.