What to do if I am going to Canada with ID & Birth Certificate, but the names are unmatching?

Question

I live in New York and am going to Montreal in about a week. I don't have a passport, so I am using my Driver's License and Birth Certificate. The only thing is that when I was born, I was given my Father's last name, but he wasn't present in my life, so my last name was changed to my Mother's at a very, very young age. Will I be allowed in Canada? I have also a Social Security card with my Mother's last name on it, too.

Answer 1

I suppose you can always try, but I doubt the Border Patrol would let you get into the country.  I would not risk it.

My name was also changed at a young age.  I have a certificate of name change, and then I could get a new birth certificate issued. With the certificate of name change, the Border Patrol would probably let you go by.

I think it best for you to call the Border Office prior to your trip.  They will give you the best advice.

Answer 2

Getting a new birth certificate issued in your current name would be a very good idea...and facilitate getting a passport. After June 2009, passports will be needed for all means of travel between Canada and the U.S., so you will need one.  For now, do you have the documentation of the name change?  I can't say for sure, but if you have that too, you may be ok.  Of course...many women have a birth certificate in one name and drivers license in another name due to marriage...and this is not a problem.

Answer 3

The short answer to your question is NO.

Two pieces of paperwork with different names ?

If you were the Canadian Border Security Agency ( not the Border Patrol they are Americans ) what would  YOU say ?

You won't get in  to Canada, with that type of problem. You need to  get it sorted out, first.

Jim B. Toronto.