BC Name Reservation Report

What is a Name Reservation Report?

It is the first step required to register or incorporate a named company. You will need to provide 3 proposed names for the government to review. The government will review these 3 names in order of preference. If the first name is available then the other two names will not be reviewed, However, if the first name is not available then the second name will be reviewed if the second name is available then the third name will not be reviewed.

An approved British Columbia Name Reservation Report is valid for 60 days. Within these 60 days you should register or incorporate your company.

What must be included in a company name?

When the BC government reviews a name they are looking for the following items to be included in the name:

  1. A Distinctive element. This should be a unique word 5 to 12 characters in length. It could be a coined word.
  2. A Descriptive element. This word should clearly describe your business activity.
  3. For Corporations: a legal ending. You may select from: Limited, Incorporated, Corporation, Limitée, Ltd., Inc., Corp., Ltee. There is no difference between the endings; it is just a matter of personal preference. Legal endings are only required for corporations.

BC Name Reservation Report

Regular 5 to 10 Business Days
$70
Expedited in 1 to 2 business days
$191.50

How long does a Name Reservation Report take?

Name Reservation Reports take approximately 5 to 10 business days to obtain. If you would like to obtain your report sooner you may order and pay an additional fee for expedited services within 1 to 2 business days.