Do I need to register my business with the provincial government in Canada?

Provincial business registration requirements vary across Canada, but the general rule is: **Operating under your own legal name** (e.g., Jane Smith, freelancer): In most provinces, you don't need to register a business name. **Operating under a trade name** (e.g., 'Jane's Graphic Studio'): Most provinces require you to register the business name: | Province | Registry | Cost | |---|---|---| | Ontario | Ontario Business Registry (ServiceOntario) | ~C$60 | | BC | BC OneStop Business Registry | ~C$31 | | Alberta | ALIS / Corporate Registry | ~C$50 | | Quebec | REQ (Registre des entreprises) | ~C$35 | | Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan Corporate Registry | ~C$65 | Registering a business name does NOT provide exclusivity of the name (that requires a trademark). It simply creates a public record that you are operating under that name. **Other licenses and permits:** Depending on your profession and province, you may also need: - Professional licences (health professionals, engineers, lawyers, electricians) - Municipal business licences - Home-based business permits - Federal permits (food, import/export, transportation) Always check both provincial and municipal requirements for your specific profession and location.

  • Operating under your legal name: usually no provincial registration needed
  • Operating under a trade name: most provinces require name registration
  • Costs range from ~C$31 (BC) to ~C$65 (SK) per registration
  • Business name registration ≠ trademark — doesn't give exclusive rights to the name
  • Additional licences may be required for regulated professions

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