Ontario Opens their Adoption Records

Many of you have asked us about the changes in adoption records that have happened in the last few months. Here's a little explanation for you!

Ontario Opens Adoption Records

Starting June 1, 2009, adopted adults and birth parents can get more information about their past. Ontario’s adoption records are now open for the first time since 1927. Getting information Once they reach the age of 18, adopted individuals can apply for copies of their birth registration and adoption order. Birth parents can also apply once the adopted adult has reached the age of 19. While there is no standard for adoption orders, they may contain: The adopted person’s birth name and adoptive name The date and place of birth The names of the birth parents Protecting privacy Adopted adults and birth parents who want to protect their privacy can also file: A notice of contact preference to specify how they would like to be contacted A no contact notice if they do not want to be contacted, but are willing to have their identifying information released A disclosure veto if the adoption was finalized before September 1, 2008. This will prevent their identifying information from being released. Finding family While the Access to Adoption Records Act, 2008 helps people find their birth and adoption information, it does not help them locate their family. People who want to get in touch with their birth relatives can add their name to Ontario’s voluntary Adoption Disclosure Register.