On May 4, 2021, Canada introduced new guidance on obtaining verification of status as an identity-linking document. Applicants who are eligible to obtain a change of given name with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under the Exceptions to change of name requirements, as well as applicants who changed their sex or gender identifier on their IRCC document, are eligible to get a verification of status (VOS) as an identity-linking document. Clients applying for a VOS must submit a completed Application for a Verification of Status or Replacement of an Immigration Document by mail. All other applicants requesting a VOS to link their previous and new names or gender identifiers must follow IRCC’s existing requirements. The VOS is an official document that links applicants’ previous and new names or gender identifiers and helps to obtain IRCC’s services.
Government of Canada updated guidance on Identity Management
