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Note: when updating information on your passport[1], you must submit a completely new passport application.  Even if you have a valid passport, the renewal form is not sufficient.  To update your name or sex designation on Canadian passport, you will need: 1. Your Canadian birth certificate or Canadian citizenship certificate with updated name and/or sex designation: if your…

To update your name or sex designation on your OHIP card, you will need: Registration for Ontario Health Coverage form, completed, signed, and dated Three separate, original (i.e. not photocopy of printout of an electronic document) identification documents: a document that proves your Canadian citizenship or OHIP-eligible immigration status (e.g. Canadian birth certificate, Permanent Resident Card) a document…

All providers need to be aware of the impact of government documentation as a social determinant of health. Trans people who are unable to change their name and/or sex designation on government documentation can face barriers in accessing health care, employment, housing, and income. Having a sex designation that is inconsistent with one’s gender presentation…

The situations in which you choose to change your gender marker or name are completely personal. No one is specifically required to change their name or gender marker in all or even any spaces. This list has been compiled for your convenience if you would like to change your name and gender marker as comprehensively…

Since these changes are requested in person at a Service Ontario office, there are no forms that you need to fill out in advance. However, you will need to bring supporting documents to show that your name and/or sex designation has changed. You can enter your address on the Service Ontario website to find a…

What documents do I need? To legally change your name in Ontario, you must have lived in the province for at least the past 12 months, and be 16 years of age or older (a separate application is required to change a child’s name; see here). You will also need the following: A completed application…

If you are looking to change multiple pieces of identification, you should change your birth certificate first, because many of the other identity pieces will require you to use your birth certificate to prove your identity. Use the correct application form Before you begin any name change process, make sure you have the right application…

The Ontario Human Rights Commission is very clear that services, including health care, cannot be denied to anyone because of a physical or mental disability. Further, it mandates that even the design of services must be inclusive, and individualized to be accessible to each person’s needs. If you believe you are being discriminated against in…

Community Care Access Centres in Ontario facilitate at-home care for people recovering from surgery, illness, or who are dealing with a chronic health condition. Through a Community Care Access Centre, you may be able to receive nursing support, physiotherapy, support with personal care such at bathing, getting dressed, and meals. Services vary by location, but…

The purpose of a surgical planning meeting isn’t to ‘defend’ or ‘prove’ your gender identity, it’s to ensure that you are well informed and that you have a plan in place for your recovery from surgery. You and your physician will discuss surgical goals and expectations and which procedure(s) are most appropriate for you. You…

The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) outlines different criteria for different transition-related surgeries (TRS). For more information on which surgeries require hormone treatment therapy, see the WPATH Standards of Care v7, beginning on page 58.

On March 1, 2016 the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) changed the funding criteria for Transition Related Surgery (TRS) to align with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH)’s internationally accepted standards of care for Gender Dysphoria. Today in Ontario, many qualified healthcare providers can assess patients for surgery. While training is strongly encouraged…

The Ontario government covers most top and bottom surgeries (also known as «Transition-Related Surgeries,» or «TRS») through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). You must obtain prior approval from OHIP before undergoing any procedure in order for it to be paid. Talk with your primary care provider about getting prior approval for surgery and read…

Many trans people take hormones via intramuscular injection (directly into a muscle, usually the thigh or butt cheek) or subcutaneously (under the skin). Some trans people choose to share needles for a variety of reasons, but sharing needles creates high risk for HIV as well as hepatitis B and C infections. Needles for intramuscular and…

There are several different methods of receiving hormone replacement therapy. For general information about different kinds of hormone replacement therapy, visit Trans Care BC’s Website. To talk more about your specific options, talk to your primary care provider.

Note: Although this is a general guide on what to expect if you are HIV+ and seeking hormone treatment, this information is not the same as medical advice from a doctor. Speak to your primary care provider for more information about your specific situation. Hormones for people with HIV are managed in the same way…

International travelers with a work visa are eligible for health coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) after 90 days of working full-time in Ontario. You have two options to apply for OHIP: Wait until you have been working for 90 day (3 months) and apply; OR Apply when you arrive and have your…

If you are coming to Canada to study at a university you will likely be covered under the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP). You may also have access to supplementary health insurance through your student union. You can reach out to the school you will be attending to discuss health services they offer, since they…

For specific resources for newcomers, you may wish to contact a settlement support agency in Ontario. Among other things, these agencies can help you find an interpreter and guide you in accessing the health care system. Ontario.ca maintains a list of agencies. If you are a refugee, know that the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)…