Office of Vital Statistics

Indian Registration

OVS assists in processing applications for Indian Registration, allowing individuals to obtain a status number or update existing records (e.g., name change, marriage, death).

Requirements:

• Must be eligible for registration under the Indian Act or relevant legislation.
• Original completed application.
• Proper identification and supporting documents.

How to Apply for Indian Status:

       
Forms:

• Adult Application for Indian Registration
• Application for Registration of a Minor Under the Indian Act
• Child Application for Indian Registration & SCIS

Status Cards

OVS issues Certificates of Indian Status (laminated cards) and provides assistance with Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) applications.

Fees:

• $5.00 per card (unless an expired or damaged card is turned in).
• $5.00 additional for a photo (if one is not provided).

Requirements:

• Must be registered and have a status number.
• Original completed application.
• Valid ID (e.g., driver’s license, health card, birth certificate).

How to Apply for Certificate of Indian Status (Laminated Card):

    
Forms:

• MRZ Status Card Application
• Application for Certificate of Indian Status Card

Bridge Passes

OVS processes applications for first-time Bridge Passes. Lost passes must be replaced directly by the Seaway International Bridge Corporation.

Requirements:

• Must be registered and have a status number.
• Must have a driver’s license.
• Original completed application. 

Forms: 

• Bridge Pass Application Checklist

Membership

Membership eligibility and rights are determined by the Akwesasne Membership Code. Non-members must apply for membership to access certain rights. Completed applications must be submitted to OVS. Applications require a criminal background check and $5.00 application fee. 

Residency

Non-members who reside in Akwesasne for 13 days or more must apply for residency approval under the Akwesasne Membership Code and Akwesasne Residency Law. Applications require a criminal background check and a $30.00 application fee.

Other Services

Membership Confirmations – Verification of membership under the Akwesasne Membership Code. 

Lands

OVS assists with land transactions such as transfers, right-of-ways, and registrations in the Indian Lands Registry, following Indigenous Services Canada policy, the Indian Act, and Akwesasne Laws.

Services Include:

• Providing Certificates of Possession, Maps, and Parcel Abstract Reports.
• Offering information on surveyors and land surveys.
• Land transactions by appointment only (no fees).

Other Land Services:

Land Confirmations – Verification of land ownership using the Indian Lands Registry System (ILRS).  

Estate Administration

OVS assists families with estate administration following the passing of a loved one. Applications are submitted to Indigenous Services Canada for approval. 

Requirements:

• The deceased individual must be registered and assigned a status number.
• Services available by appointment only (no fees).

Wills

Community members are encouraged to draft and finalize a Will to express their final wishes. OVS offers will workshops throughout the year and securely stores completed wills.

• By appointment only (no fee).
• Will information packages are available. 

Leasing

OVS administers seasonal recreational leases on 14 islands within Akwesasne, following the Indian Act and Akwesasne Laws.

• Over 230 registered seasonal leases are managed by OVS.
• Leases are 15 years in length.
• Listings of vacant lots and cottages for sale are available.

Requirements to Lease:

• Submit an Application to Lease with a criminal background check, character references, and a non-refundable $20.00 application fee.
• Approval is required before purchasing a cottage or entering a lease.
• Must provide annual proof of insurance.
• Lump sum lease payment due once per year (no installment options).
• Sub-leasing is not allowed. 

Lot 21 Thompson Island

This charming seasonal cottage offers three bedrooms, a 3-piece bathroom, and a cozy living space with an enclosed front porch. Enjoy direct waterfront access, a deck, and a wood stove–heated sauna for relaxing after a day on the water.

Recent updates and included features make this move-in-ready, including bedding, mattresses, stove, refrigerator, cooking supplies, utensils, futon sofa and chair, and outdoor furniture. A storage shed is also included for tools and equipment.

This is a seasonal leased lot with an annual rent of $3,360 for the period of May 1, 2025 to April 30, 2028, under a 15-year lease term (ending April 30, 2028). A rent reduction is currently in effect for members of Akwesasne, setting the rent at 25% of fair market value per year for the five-year period from 2022–2026.

Asking price is $65,000 (as is).

For more information or to schedule a viewing, please contact Lise at 613-930-6595.
   

Lot 18 (Block C) Hamilton Island

This beautifully refinished, move-in-ready cottage offers approximately 900 sq. ft. of seasonal living space with 2 bedrooms, a cozy loft, and a separate office/bunkie. Enjoy modern comfort with a full bathroom, laundry facilities, outdoor garage, and a newly installed heat pump for both heating and cooling.

Recent upgrades include new electrical and plumbing systems, along with completely refinished interior and exterior siding.

The sale includes all major appliances, furniture, outdoor furnishings, and even a small aluminum boat with motor and dock space for vessels up to 25 ft.

This is a seasonal leased lot with an annual rent of $5,632 for the period of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027, under a 15-year lease term (ending June 30, 2039).

Asking price is $489,000.

For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Jeff Flaro at 613-794-3868 or lot18blockc.hamiltonisland@gmail.com.