B.C. Business Registration: How to Legally Start a Business in British Columbia

Whether you’re launching a local retail shop in Kelowna or a consulting firm in Vancouver, registering your business in British Columbia (B.C.) is an essential step toward operating legally and professionally. Business registration ensures you’re compliant with provincial regulations and can access tax accounts, permits, and other critical services.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about B.C. Business Registration, including who needs to register, how the process works, and what to do after you’re registered.

What Is Business Registration in B.C.?

Business registration in B.C. refers to the process of formally notifying the province that you’re starting a business. The steps you must take depend on the type of business structure you choose:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Corporation

Each structure has different legal and tax implications, so it’s important to choose the one that fits your goals, level of risk, and plans for growth.

Who Needs to Register a Business in B.C.?

You must register your business in B.C. if:

• You’re operating under a name that’s not your own legal name
• You’re starting a corporation
• You’re forming a partnership
• You need a business licence, tax number, or permit

However, if you’re running a sole proprietorship under your full legal name (e.g., “Jane Doe”), registration may not be required—but it’s still highly recommended to avoid name conflicts and access business services.

Types of Business Structures in B.C.

1. Sole Proprietorship

• Owned and operated by one person
• Easiest and cheapest to set up
• No legal distinction between owner and business

2. Partnership

• Owned by two or more people
• Partners share profits, responsibilities, and liabilities
• Must be registered if using a business name

3. Corporation

• A separate legal entity
• Offers liability protection
• More complex structure with added regulations

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in B.C.

Step 1: Choose a Business Name

Select a name that represents your brand and meets provincial requirements:

• It must be distinctive
• It must include a descriptive element (what your business does)
• Corporations must include a legal ending (e.g., Ltd., Inc.)

Step 2: Register Your Business Online

Once your name is approved, register your business through the B.C. Business Registry. The process differs depending on your business type:

• Sole proprietorships and partnerships use the Business Name Registration system
• Corporations use the Incorporation Application

You’ll need:

• Business name and approval number
• Business address
• Description of business activities
• Owner or director details

Step 3: Register for a CRA Business Number

After provincial registration, you may need a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for tax purposes, including:

• GST/HST accounts
• Payroll deductions
• Import/export accounts

Step 4: Apply for Municipal Licences and Permits

Most cities and municipalities in B.C. require a business licence, even for home-based businesses:

• Health permits (for food-related businesses)
• Zoning approvals
• Building permits

After You Register

Once registered, you must:

• Renew your registration (sole proprietorships and partnerships must renew every 3 years)
• File annual reports (for corporations)
• Keep your business information up to date
• Maintain records (invoices, expenses, contracts, etc.)

If your business structure changes—like if you incorporate after starting as a sole proprietor—you must update your registration or re-register under the new structure.

Final Thoughts

Registering a business in British Columbia is a straightforward but important process. It ensures you’re operating legally, helps you build credibility, and allows access to tax services, financial institutions, and municipal licensing. With most of the process now available online, starting a business in B.C. is more convenient than ever.

If you’re unsure which structure is right for you or need help with compliance, it’s a good idea to consult a lawyer or accountant familiar with B.C.’s business laws