Resources

Passive Registry

The concept is simple: if you register your name with the ARR and the person(s) you are looking for registers with us, we make a match. BOTH parties must register for a match to occur.

Because the ARR has legal access to original adoption records, we know when a correct match has occurred. When a match is made, a reunion consultant contacts both of you to let you know about the match and to assist you in making direct contact with each other.

Who can apply?

If you are an adopted adult (19 or over) who was adopted in British Columbia, you can register on the Passive Registry for contact with any or all of the following relatives (who are also 19 or older):

  • Birth parents;
  • Siblings adopted into another family;
  • Siblings who were not adopted; or
  • Other relatives by birth or adoption (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins).

If you are a birth parent, you may register for contact with an adopted adult (19 or over) whom you have placed for adoption.

If you are a relative of an adopted adult, you may register on the Passive Registry. Both of you must be 19 years of age or older.

Can I be matched with more than one person?

Yes, you can be matched with more than one person, but it is important that you fill out the application form carefully. You must tell us exactly who you are open to having contact with. We will inform you of each match as they occur. If more than one match occurs at the same time, you can choose who to be connected with first.

When will I hear from the ARR?

You will be sent confirmation from the ARR that your application has been received. After that, the ARR will only contact you if there is a match. A match may not happen for years. If you move during this time, you must notify us. Incorrect or out of date addresses may prevent us from connecting you with your relative.

When is my name and address given out?

We will not release your full name or address until we speak to you and ensure that you are ready to proceed.

What happens if there is no match?

Lack of a passive match does not necessarily mean that the other person does not want to have contact. They may not know of our registry, they may not feel that they have the right to apply, or they may be thinking of applying, but have not followed through. In the case of birth fathers or siblings (adopted or not), they may not know of your existence.

If you have not had a match, you may consider conducting a search.

How do I switch to a search?

If you are registered with the ARR and wish to change the status of your file from passive to active, please send us the following:

  • A written request indicating that you would like to begin an active search, specifying who you are seeking;
  • A copy of the adoptee's original Birth Registration (available from VSA to birth parent(s) and adoptees); and
  • Payment of search fee ($250) in the form of a cheque/money order made payable to the Minister of Finance, or authorization for credit card transaction OR a completed Income Test Form (see how to apply).

Not everyone is eligible under BC law to conduct a search of the ARR. For more information about searching, please go to "Active Searches".

Adoption Reunion Registry
PO Box 9705 Prov Govt
Victoria BC V8W 9S1

Phone: 250 387-3660 (Victoria, BC)
For toll-free access within North America, call:
1 877 387-3660