Federal Name Pre-Approval is a process where businesses or individuals seeking to incorporate a federal corporation must have their proposed business name reviewed and approved by Corporations Canada before incorporation. This ensures the name complies with federal naming rules and is unique, avoiding confusion with existing entities.
What is Federal Name Pre-Approval?
- It’s a process offered by Corporations Canada for incorporating federal businesses
- It involves submitting a proposed corporate name for review to ensure it complies with the requirements of the Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA).
- If the name is approved, the name is reserved for 90 days.
- When it is approved, it allow the incorporator to proceed with federal incorporation.
Why Federal Name Pre-Approval is Needed?
Uniqueness and Legality: The main purpose of the Federal Name Pre-Approval is to ensure that the chosen business name is unique and not already in use by another corporation.
Compliance with Regulations: It checks that the name complies with federal regulations concerning business names.
National Recognition: Because federal incorporation gives a business the right to operate under the same name across Canada, it’s crucial that the name be vetted thoroughly to avoid conflicts in different provinces and territories.
Reduces Risk of Legal Issues: This helps minimize the risk of future legal disputes over name infringement.
Federal Name Pre-Approval ensures the proposed name is legally compliant, unique, and suitable for federal registration, protecting both the business and the public.
How do I apply for Federal Name Pre-Approval?
You will need to revise your proposed name and submit a new application, along with a new NUANS report by either online or through authorized service providers like Business Ontario.
Where can I get a NUANS report?
You can obtain a NUANS report through authorized service providers like Business Ontario.
You can also do your Federal Name Pre-Approval by the following leading NUANS member:
How long does it take to get a Federal Name Pre-Approval?
The approval process typically takes 1-2 business days once the NUANS report and application are submitted. But with Business Ontario You can get it in 1 business day because we are member of NUANS and Corporation Canada.
What happens if my proposed business name is rejected?
If your proposed business name is rejected, you will need to submit a new name for approval. Government will let you know why your name got rejected. So, you have to correct the reason.
Can I operate my business under a different name than the one approved?
No. The name that got approved must need to use to incorporate a federal corporation. After incorporation a federal corporation you can operate under a ‘doing business as’ (DBA) name or Trade name.
What is a NUANS report, and why is it required?
A NUANS report is a search report that compares your proposed name with existing corporate names, business names, and trademarks. It’s required to identify potential conflicts and ensure your proposed business name is unique.
How long is a pre-approved name reserved?
Once approved, the name is typically reserved for 90 days. This times is giving you to complete the incorporation process.
Can any name be pre-approved?
No. The proposed name must comply with the requirements of the Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA), including being distinctive and not misleading. For more details please contact with us by email or call or chat.
Can I change my pre-approved name?
Once a name is pre-approved, it cannot be changed. If you want to change the name, you will need to start the process over with a new application.
Can I use a numbered company instead of a named corporation?
Yes, if you don’t want to go through the name approval process, you can incorporate as a numbered company (e.g., 1234567 Canada Inc.).
Can I change my business name after incorporation?
Yes, but you will need to go through the Federal Name Pre-Approval process again for the new name.