So, you’ve got a brilliant idea. Maybe it’s a quirky café that only serves waffles shaped like moose. Maybe it’s the next tech startup that will save us all from too many forgotten passwords. Whatever it is, you’re ready to make it official. And where better to plant your entrepreneurial flag than the East Coast gem of Canada — New Brunswick?
But hold on a second. Before you start printing business cards and ordering branded pens, there’s one not-so-glamorous step you can’t skip: registration. Yep, it’s paperwork time. But don’t worry, this guide will make it (almost) painless.
Let’s walk through how to register a business in New Brunswick step by step — with a bit of humor to keep you awake.
Why Registering Your Business is Kind of a Big Deal
If you don’t register your business, you’re basically operating as an invisible ghost-entrepreneur. Spooky, but not in a good way.
Registering makes your business legit in the eyes of the law, your customers, and even the bank when you try to open that shiny new business account. It also protects your business name so no one else can swoop in and claim it (looking at you, “Waffle Moose Café” imposters).
Think of registration like giving your business its official birth certificate. Without it, you’re just babysitting a dream.
Plus, registering helps you:
- Open a business bank account (goodbye mixing personal and business finances!)
- Apply for loans or government grants
- Protect your brand and business name
Step 1: Decide on Your Business Structure
Your first big decision: how do you want your business to exist in the eyes of the law? New Brunswick offers three main structures:
New Brunswick Sole Proprietorship: The One-Person Show
If it’s just you, your laptop, and maybe your cat as an unpaid intern, this is the simplest option. Quick, affordable, and easy to set up.
- Pros: Simple, low-cost, minimal paperwork
- Cons: You’re personally liable for business debts
New Brunswick Partnership: Dynamic Duo (or Trio, or More)
If you’re teaming up with a friend, this structure lets you share responsibilities (and hopefully profits). Just make sure you trust your partner more than your favorite coffee shop barista.
- Pros: Shared responsibility, easy setup
- Cons: Shared liability, potential for disagreements
New Brunswick Corporation: The Big Leagues
If you’re planning world domination (or just serious growth), incorporation may be the way to go. This option makes your business a separate legal entity – which means more paperwork but also more protection.
- Pros: Limited liability, potential tax advantages
- Cons: More complex, higher fees, more paperwork
Pro Tip: Many entrepreneurs start as a sole proprietor and later incorporate as their business grows.
New Brunswick Incorporation vs Federal Incorporation
Feature |
New Brunswick Incorporation |
Federal Incorporation |
|---|---|---|
Jurisdiction |
Recognized only in New Brunswick | Recognized across all of Canada |
Name Protection |
Business name protected only in New Brunswick | Business name protected nationwide (if approved) |
Filing Authority |
New Brunswick Corporate Registry | Corporations Canada (CIPO for trademarks separately) |
Filing Process |
File incorporation documents with Service New Brunswick | File incorporation documents online with Corporations Canada |
Cost |
Typically lower provincial fees | Moderate fees, sometimes slightly higher than provincial |
Annual Filings |
Annual return with NB Corporate Registry | Annual return with Corporations Canada (plus extra filings if also registered provincially) |
Flexibility |
Easier for businesses operating mainly in NB | Better for businesses planning to expand across multiple provinces |
Timeframe |
Usually processed within a few business days | Fast online filing (often same day) |
Extra-Provincial Registration |
Not required if you only operate in NB; required if expanding outside NB | Must register extra-provincially in each province/territory where you do business |
Best For |
Local NB businesses and small corporations that operate mainly within the province | Businesses with plans to operate in multiple provinces or nationwide |
Step 2: Pick a Name That Rocks (and Is Legal)
Your business name is like your brand’s superhero cape. It needs to stand out, but it also can’t be taken.
Head over to the New Brunswick Business Registry to check name availability. You don’t want to invest in a flashy logo only to find out “Moose Waffles Inc.” is already taken by someone in Moncton. You can also easily do it online with the official providers like Nuans Canada Online. Simply order a New Brunswick NUANS Report, you can get it sent instantly to your email.
Pro Tip: Keep it simple, spellable, and not embarrassing to answer on the phone. (“Hi, thank you for calling ‘Unicorns-R-Us-Sparkle-Solutions-and-Snacks’…”)
Bonus Tip: If you’re incorporating, your name must include a legal element like Ltd., Inc., or Corp.
Step 3: File Your Registration with the Province
Here’s where the magic happens. You’ll need to use the corporate registry NB, which is basically the province’s official system for business filings. If you want your New Brunswick incorporation done quickly and without mistakes, better use the official service providers like Canada Incorporation Agency.
What You’ll Need:
- Your chosen business name
- Information about your business structure
- Your personal info (yes, even your home address)
- Payment for the registration fee
Depending on your business type, fees will vary — but think of it as a small investment compared to the fortune you’ll eventually make selling artisanal dog treats.
Pro Tip: Keep copies of all your registration documents. Future you will thank past you when accountants or banks come calling.
Step 4: Initial Paperwork (AKA The Fun Never Ends)
If you’re incorporating in New Brunswick, you’ll also need to file Articles of Incorporation. For sole proprietors or partnerships, it’s less paperwork, but you’ll still have to register your business name.
The register a business in NB process might sound dull, but it’s your golden ticket to doing business legally. Plus, you get bragging rights: “Yeah, my business is officially registered. No big deal.”
Filing Methods:
- Online – Fastest and easiest. All you need to do – is to complete a simple online form on our website and we will take care of the registration.
- By Mail – Traditional, slower, but sometimes nostalgic
In-Person – Great if you like human interaction
Step 5: Licenses, Permits, and Other Joys
Some businesses need extra business licenses. For example, if you’re opening a bar, you’ll need a liquor license (because apparently, they don’t just hand those out with your Costco membership).
Check both municipal and provincial requirements. Nothing kills the entrepreneurial vibe like getting shut down on opening day.
Examples of Common Licenses in NB:
- Food handling permits
- Liquor licenses
- Trade or professional licenses
- Home-based business approvals
Step 6: Taxes (The Part Nobody Likes, But Everybody Must Do)
Congratulations! You’ve joined the glamorous world of remitting taxes. Depending on your structure, you may need:
- A business number from CRA
- HST registration if you’re over $30,000 in revenue
- Payroll deductions if you’re hiring employees (lucky you!)
Think of taxes as the subscription fee for living in a country with roads, hospitals, and hockey rinks.
Step 7: Why Use the Online System?
The online corporate registry NB portal is your new best friend. You can:
- Search for business names
- File your registration
- Submit annual returns
- Make changes without mailing anything (because who uses stamps anymore?)
Seriously, it’s easier than ordering pizza online. And you don’t even have to tip.
Step 8: How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in NB?
Not long at all. In fact, you can complete the process in a couple of hours if you have all your details ready. That’s faster than binge-watching a season of your favorite show.
The real wait is for you to muster up the courage to fill out forms without procrastinating.
Step 9: Costs of Registering a Business in New Brunswick
The costs vary depending on your structure:
- Sole Proprietorship / Partnership: Lower fees, less paperwork
- Corporation: Higher fees, more paperwork, but also more protection
Think of it this way: the fee is cheaper than your daily coffee habit over a few weeks. And unlike coffee, your business registration doesn’t wear off after four hours.
Step 10: Maintaining Your Business Registration
Here’s the thing: once you’ve registered, you’re not completely off the hook. You’ll need to file annual returns and keep your information updated with the province.
Yes, it’s admin work, but it’s better than finding out your business was dissolved because you ignored an email reminder.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Name Search – Don’t do it. Duplicate names = rejected application.
- Forgetting Renewals – Your registration isn’t forever. Set reminders.
- Not Getting the Right Permits – You don’t want surprise visits from inspectors.
Using Your Cat as a Co-Signer – Tempting, but not legally valid.
FAQs About Registering a Business in NB
Q: Can I register my business entirely online?
A: Absolutely! The new brunswick business registry makes it easy and quick.
Q: Do I need a lawyer to register?
A: Not really, but a lawyer can help with corporations or complicated partnerships.
Q: How long is my registration valid?
A: You must file annual returns to keep your registration active.
Q: Can I change my business name later?
A: Yes, but it’s a separate process through the corporate registry NB.
Final Thoughts: Registering is the Easy Part
Registering your business in New Brunswick might not be as exciting as your launch party, but it’s essential. And honestly, once you know the steps, it’s not that scary.
So go ahead: fire up your laptop, head to the new brunswick business registry, and start the process today. Future You (and your accountant) will thank you.
Because at the end of the day, whether you’re selling waffles, apps, or artisanal candles that smell like the Bay of Fundy, registration is the first real step in turning your dream into a reality.
