Life Events

Managing life events such as a birth, death or marriage can be difficult in a new country. Find out more about what to do during these events in Ontario.

Birth

What if my Ontario birth certificate is lost or stolen?
If you were born in Ontario you can apply for a replacement birth certificate through Service Ontario.
Where can I find support groups for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, or asexual (LGBTQIA+) newcomers?
If you are new to Ontario you may want to connect with other newcomers who also identify as LGBTQIA+. You may want to find a community group specifically for LGBTQIA+ newcomers. You don’t have to be openly out to join these kinds of groups.
How do I access abortion services in Ontario?
Abortions are available across Ontario and covered by OHIP until 24 weeks gestation; however not every city has equal access.

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Adoption & Foster Care

Where can I find support groups for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, or asexual (LGBTQIA+) newcomers?
If you are new to Ontario you may want to connect with other newcomers who also identify as LGBTQIA+. You may want to find a community group specifically for LGBTQIA+ newcomers. You don’t have to be openly out to join these kinds of groups.
What is foster care?
There are times that a child cannot remain at home with their parent or caregiver because of serious safety concerns, this is when a child will enter the foster care system.
What options do I have for adopting a child?
Adopting children happens for different reasons; regardless of your reason, there are steps to take if you are planning on blending and growing your family.

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Marriage

How do I get a marriage licence?
In Ontario, you must get a marriage licence before you get married. You can apply for a marriage licence at municipal offices and city halls.
Will the Canadian government recognize my foreign marriage?
Generally, your foreign marriage will be recognized by the Canadian government, if the marriage is legal according to the laws of the place where it occurred, and if it complies with Canada's federal laws on marriage.
How do I change my name after I get married?
After you get married you have the option to change your last name, also known as family name or surname, to your spouse’s last name.

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Divorce

How does divorce affect my immigration status?
Generally, you do not lose your immigration status because of divorce. You may need to seek legal advice about your specific situation.
What are my rights if I get separated or divorced?
When you separate or divorce from your spouse, you may have a right to economic support or property. Your rights depend on different things, such as whether you were legally married or in a common-law relationship, and if you have children.
How can I get a divorce in Ontario?
The law about divorce in Ontario is the same as everywhere else in Canada. You do not have to be a Canadian citizen to apply for a divorce, but there are certain criteria you must meet.

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Retirement

Where can I find health services for seniors?
In general, you can use the same health programs and services as other adults. Some programs and services may be especially useful.
Will I get a pension from my employer?
Some employers offer a pension plan for their employees. There are two main types of employer pension plans.
What is the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program?
The Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP) offers routine dental services for eligible seniors aged 65 and over.

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Death and Funerals

What mental health support can I receive after miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss?
A loss, even in the early weeks of pregnancy, can trigger mental health issues for the parents and their families. Along with the physical healing, there will be a grieving process.
Do I need a will?
Your will gives you control over your estate after you die. You can make sure that certain people get certain parts of your estate. This is important for valuable and sentimental property.
How do I make a will?
A will is a legal document and it must be written clearly. You cannot explain what you meant after you die.

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Service Animals and Pets

Can I bring my pet to Canada?
Whether you are bringing a new pet home to Canada or bringing your beloved furry family member to join you in Canada there are things to keep in mind.
What should I know before adopting a pet?
Many animal shelters and humane societies are seeing an increase in pet adoptions. There are a few things that you should consider before you join the trend and adopt a furry friend.
What is a service animal?
Service animals are not pets, they are working animals with a job to do.

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Life Events

Birth

What if my Ontario birth certificate is lost or stolen?

Where can I find support groups for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, or asexual (LGBTQIA+) newcomers?

How do I access abortion services in Ontario?

Adoption & Foster Care

Where can I find support groups for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, or asexual (LGBTQIA+) newcomers?

What is foster care?

What options do I have for adopting a child?

Marriage

How do I get a marriage licence?

Will the Canadian government recognize my foreign marriage?

How do I change my name after I get married?

Divorce

How does divorce affect my immigration status?

What are my rights if I get separated or divorced?

How can I get a divorce in Ontario?

Retirement

Where can I find health services for seniors?

Will I get a pension from my employer?

What is the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program?

Death and Funerals

What mental health support can I receive after miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss?

Do I need a will?

How do I make a will?

Service Animals and Pets

Can I bring my pet to Canada?

What should I know before adopting a pet?

What is a service animal?