Registration, Licensing, and Legal Information

A useful online app to help you determine which business structure is the right one for you.

This resource defines various small business structures and lays out the pros and cons of each option.

Information on the benefits, disadvantages, and implications of incorporating your business at the federal level.

Before you can register a business in BC, you generally need to get approval from the government to operate under the name of your choosing. You can do this online through BC Registries.

Full list of business naming rules from the Government of BC.

To incorporate at the federal level, you must instead follow the naming directives provided by the Government of Canada.

Small Business BC offers some tips on how to get the perfect name for your business.

For BC sole proprietorships and general partnerships, you can register online through BC Registries.

For most BC corporations, you can register online through Corporate Online.

For federal corporations, you can register online through Corporations Canada.

Online service that provides you with additional permits, licenses, approvals and acts and regulations which may apply to your specific business.

Most businesses require a business license to operate and meet the city's bylaws and zoning requirements. Apply to your municipal (e.g., City of Vancouver) licensing offices or online.

Information on collecting BC provincial sales tax (PST) and a guide on how to register to collect PST online.

If you sell or provide goods and services in Canada and your annual worldwide GST taxable sales, including those of any associates, are more than $30,000, you may be required to register for goods and services tax (GST). Find out more from the CRA.

A guide from the CRA  to set up obligations and entitlements as a small business owner in Canada.

The Richards Buell Sutton LLP Business Law Clinic provides pro bono help regarding legal questions and issues relating to small businesses.

Provides information on necessary insurance coverage for your business.

For name/brand protection, apply for a trademark through the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.