In Manitoba, registering a new corporation online can be almost immediate if you choose a numbered company. If you want a specific business name, the name reservation process typically takes 3 to 10 business days to approve before you can officially incorporate.
Time is money, especially when you are eager to launch a new enterprise. 🚀 Getting your business registered promptly means you can open a corporate bank account, sign a commercial lease, and start serving customers.
In this article, we will explain how long it takes to register a new corporation in Manitoba. We will cover the different timelines for named versus numbered companies, and the steps you must take at the Companies Office. If you need assistance speeding up the paperwork, we politely suggest reaching out to a local lawyer from our directory.
Step-by-Step Registration Timeline in Manitoba
Whether you plan to operate out of Winnipeg, Portage la Prairie, or Thompson, all corporate filings go through the Manitoba Companies Office. 📍 The timeline largely depends on the method of filing and the type of corporation you choose.
Step 1: The Name Reservation Phase
If you want a custom name for your business, you must submit a Request for Name Reservation. The government manually reviews this to check for conflicts. Generally, this review takes anywhere from a few days up to two weeks, depending on the current volume of applications.
Step 2: Submitting the Articles of Incorporation
Once your name is secured (or if you bypass step one by choosing a numbered company), you file your Articles of Incorporation. 📄 Filing this document online through the Companies Office portal is the fastest method, often resulting in same-day or next-day approval.
Step 3: Organising the Minute Book
After the government issues your Certificate of Incorporation, your corporation technically exists. However, you must still prepare your corporate minute book, issue shares, and appoint officers. A law firm can usually complete these foundational legal documents within a week.
How Long Does it Take to Register a New Corporation in Manitoba?
To give you a clearer picture, here is a breakdown of the typical timelines you can expect. 🕑 Keep in mind that filing paper forms by mail will significantly delay your registration.
| Registration Step | Online Filing Timeline | Paper / Mail Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Name Reservation (Named Corporation) | 3 to 10 business days | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Articles of Incorporation | Immediate to 1 business day | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Business Number (CRA) | Instant (upon online request) | Up to 30 days |
Choosing to incorporate a numbered company is by far the fastest route. However, most customer-facing businesses prefer the branding benefits of a named corporation, making the short wait worthwhile.
How Much Does the Registration Cost?
In addition to time, you must budget for government fees. 💵 The standard filing fee for Articles of Incorporation in Manitoba is $350 CAD. Reserving a business name costs an additional $45 CAD. If you choose to hire a lawyer to ensure everything is filed correctly, legal fees generally range from $500 to $1,200 CAD.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I speed up the name reservation process?
While the Companies Office processes applications in the order they are received, filing online rather than by mail is the best way to ensure the fastest possible turnaround time.
Do I have to wait for name approval before printing marketing materials?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you do not order signage, business cards, or domain names until the Companies Office officially approves your name reservation. Otherwise, you risk wasting money if the name is rejected.
How long does it take to get a CRA Business Number?
Once your corporation is registered in Manitoba, you can usually register for a federal Business Number (BN) and GST/HST account online with the CRA within a matter of minutes.
Why should I use a law firm to register my corporation?
While doing it yourself saves money upfront, a lawyer ensures your share structure is set up properly for future growth and tax efficiency. Fixing a poorly structured corporation later takes significantly more time and money.
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