Name Approval Process

The first step in incorporation or registration of firms is the approval of the business name. The approval of any name is at the discretion of the Registrar of Companies.

Go to Name Requests Online to submit your Name Approval Request electronically, for examination by the Name Reservation Unit, of the Corporate Registry.  Payment is by credit card.  There is online information you can access and a video demonstration to help you through the process.  The online fee is $31.58.

If you do not wish to use a credit card over the Internet, visit a Service BC Centre or OneStop service delivery location.  Upon payment of the specified fee, they can provide you with the Name Approval Request form and will submit your request to the Corporate Registry for examination.

Note: OneStop service delivery locations are able to assist with some business start-up information.  Once your business has been established, the OneStop locations are a great source for business resource materials.

Should you wish to submit your Name Approval Request form by mail, send a completed form to Corporate Registry, PO Box 9431 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9V3. Please ensure to include a cheque or money order for $30.00 payable to the Minister of Finance.
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Note: You should allow for an additional 5 to 7 working days for your name approval to be processed if you choose to submit by mail.

Download the Name Approval Request Form

Name Approval Request Fees

The name approval request fee charged by non-government locations, such as Community Futures and Chamber of Commerce offices, varies.