Saskatchewan has expanded the list of criminal offences for which legal name changes can be refused, a move that could strengthen the reliability of criminal record checks used by employers across the province.
Under The Change of Name Amendment Regulations, 2025, individuals convicted of murder, specific drug trafficking offences, fraud, or designated as dangerous, long-term or high-risk offenders can now be denied a legal name change. The regulations took effect Dec. 4.
All legal name change applications in Saskatchewan now require a certified criminal record check that includes fingerprinting.
Impact on workplace screening
The regulatory changes directly support employers who conduct criminal background checks during hiring, particularly in sectors working with vulnerable populations or handling sensitive information.
Organizations in healthcare, education, financial services, childcare and security rely on accurate criminal record checks to meet their duty of care obligations and regulatory compliance requirements. The new restrictions prevent individuals with serious criminal histories from obscuring their records through name changes.
“These amendments will strengthen protection for victims and the public,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “Ensuring that anyone convicted of these crimes cannot escape the consequences of their past actions and will make our province safer and more secure.”
New offences added
The expanded list now includes dangerous offenders under section 753 of the Criminal Code, long-term offenders under section 753.1, and high-risk offenders subject to public notification.
Individuals convicted of fraud under Part X of the Criminal Code, designated substance offences involving Schedule I substances under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and murder under section 231 of the Criminal Code can also be refused name changes.
The regulations support a commitment made in the Saskatchewan Throne Speech earlier this fall.
Consultation with law enforcement
The government consulted with local police services before implementing the changes.
“After consultations with local police services in the province, there is a clear consensus that those individuals convicted of serious offences cannot hide behind a new name,” Cockrill said.
Corrections Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said the changes reinforce transparency in the justice system. “The expansion of additional criminal code offences ensures that individuals convicted of serious crimes remain accountable and visible to law enforcement and the public,” he said.
Approximately 1,000 people apply for a legal name change each year in Saskatchewan.
