Incorporate A Business in Alberta

A NUANS (Newly Upgraded Automated Name Search) search is a comprehensive search that compares a proposed Alberta or extra-provincial corporation name or a proposed non-profit name to a database of Alberta and federal corporation names.

• The person who ordered the report uses it to decide whether they should proceed with their proposed name for an Alberta or extra-provincial corporation.
• In the case of a non-profit organization, Corporate Registry will examine the report to decide whether or not the proposed name can be used in Alberta.
• In most cases, a NUANS report is required for incorporation, amalgamation, name change, or revival of an Alberta corporation or non-profit organization and for registration, amalgamation, name change, and reinstatement of an extra-provincial corporation.

The following situations do not require a NUANS report:

• When the proposed name is a ‘number name’ for an Alberta or extra-provincial corporation.
• When the proposed name is for a federal (Canada) corporation that is extra-provincially registering in Alberta.
• When the proposed name is for an Alberta corporation that is reviving within three years of its dissolution.

The NUANS report reserves the proposed name for 90 days. The complete report, whether an original or fax copy, must be submitted with the incorporation/registration details and must be less than 91 days old.

Another type of report, the Business Name Report, focuses on Alberta partnership and trade names (business names) and does not reserve the proposed business name. Corporate Registry recommends this report be purchased and reviewed prior to registration of a business name.

You can get a NUANS and Business Name Reports through us at Registrations Are Us.

Yes, non-Canadian citizens and non-residents can incorporate a business in Alberta. However, you will need to appoint a Canadian resident as an agent or director who can legally represent the corporation within the province. Additionally, there may be specific requirements or considerations based on your immigration status and the type of business you intend to operate.

The time it takes to incorporate a business in Alberta can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your business structure, the accuracy of your documentation, and the workload of our office. In general, it can take up to a few business days.

Federal incorporation falls under the Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA) and allows your corporation to operate across all provinces and territories. Provincial incorporation in Alberta, under the Alberta Business Corporations Act (ABCA), limits your corporation’s operations to Alberta. The decision between federal and provincial incorporation depends on your business’s expansion plans and whether you intend to operate solely within Alberta or across Canada.

However, a federally incorporated business would have to provincially register in Alberta to do business in the province, such as registering vehicles in the company name.

Incorporating your business in Alberta offers several advantages. It provides name protection in Alberta and limited liability protection, separating your personal assets from business liabilities. This means your personal assets won’t be at risk if the business faces legal or financial issues. Additionally, incorporation can enhance credibility and attract investors, as it portrays a more professional image. Tax benefits and potential access to certain government grants and programs are also possible as an incorporated entity.