Businesses and incorporated companies

Last updated on August 6, 2024

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Businesses, corporations, cooperative associations and societies need to register, file documents and update records, which are kept as a matter of public record. 

Request a name for a business or organization

Businesses and organizations must have their name approved and confirm it's not being used by another corporation.

Start or manage a business or organization

Find instructions for starting, maintaining or dissolving an organization or business.

Start or manage a not-for-profit organization

In B.C., not-for-profit organizations are known as societies. Societies are independent, democratic organizations that follow the Societies Act and their own constitution and bylaws.

Look up business records

Request information about businesses or organizations registered in B.C., including:

  • Information about incorporated companies, cooperatives and societies
  • Certificate of Status
  • ​Certificate of Good Standing
  • Letter Under Seal

View the Search Index  to know where to search for businesses (105KB PDF)

Register or maintain an out-of-province company or organization

Extraprovincial (out-of-province) companies and organizations need to register. This includes:

  • Out-of-province businesses and organizations operating or conducting activities in B.C.
  • B.C. businesses or organizations operating or conducting activities outside of the province

Find out about extraprovincial registration for:

The New West Partnership Trade Agreement is for companies and organizations in (or doing business in) Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

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