To keep your company legally active in Nova Scotia, you must file an annual renewal with the Registry of Joint Stock Companies (RJSC). The current fee is approximately $118.35 CAD, and failing to renew will eventually result in your corporation being struck from the register.
Maintaining a corporation in Nova Scotia is not a “set it and forget it” process. Every year, on the anniversary month of your incorporation or initial registration, you are legally required to renew your company’s status with the provincial government. This process confirms that your business is still actively operating and ensures the public registry has your most up-to-date contact information and director details.
Whether your business is headquartered in Halifax, Truro, or Amherst, the process is handled centrally through Access Nova Scotia and the Registry of Joint Stock Companies (RJSC). 💻 Ignoring this annual obligation is a serious mistake. If you fail to renew and pay the required fee, your company will be marked as “default” and can eventually be revoked. Once your corporation is struck off, you lose your corporate name protection and your ability to legally conduct business in the province.
Step-by-Step Process in Nova Scotia
Renewing your annual registration is a straightforward administrative task that can easily be completed online. Follow these steps to ensure your corporation remains in good standing.
Step 1: Locate Your Renewal Notice and Registry ID
About a month before your renewal date, the RJSC will send a notice to your corporation’s recognized agent or registered office address. 📬 You will need your Nova Scotia Registry ID number to proceed. If you cannot find your notice, you can easily look up your company’s Registry ID on the public RJSC database online.
Step 2: Review and Update Your Corporate Information
Before paying the fee, check your current profile on the RJSC website. Ensure that your registered office address, mailing address, recognized agent, and list of directors are completely accurate. If any of this information has changed over the past year, you must file a separate Notice of Change form to update the registry.
Step 3: Submit Your Renewal Payment Online
The fastest way to complete the process is through the official Access Nova Scotia online portal. 💳 You can search for your company, select the renewal option, and pay the annual fee using a major credit card or Interac Online. You can also pay by cheque via mail or visit an Access Nova Scotia centre in person.
Step 4: Keep a Record of Your Good Standing
Once your payment is processed, the registry will automatically update your company’s status to “Active.” Save the digital receipt and print a copy of your updated RJSC profile for your corporate minute book. Banks, investors, and potential clients often check this database to verify that your company is legally operational.
How Much Does it Cost in Nova Scotia?
The cost of annual renewal depends on the exact type of business entity you operate. Here are the typical fees associated with keeping your corporate status active in Nova Scotia as of May 2026:
- Nova Scotia Limited Company: The standard annual renewal fee for a domestic corporation is $118.35 CAD.
- Extra-Provincial Corporation: If your company is incorporated in another province (like Ontario) but registered to do business in Nova Scotia, the renewal fee is $274.10 CAD.
- Societies / Non-Profits: Registered societies have a much lower annual renewal fee of roughly $31.50 CAD.
| Entity Type | Annual Renewal Fee (CAD) | Consequence of Non-Payment |
|---|---|---|
| NS Limited Company | $118.35 | Default status, eventually struck off. |
| Extra-Provincial Corp. | $274.10 | Loss of right to operate in Nova Scotia. |
| Registered Society | ~$31.50 | Revocation of society status. |
How Long Does the Process Take?
If you choose to renew online via Access Nova Scotia, the entire process takes less than 10 minutes, and your active status is updated almost instantly on the public registry. ⏳ If you mail a cheque, processing can take 2 to 4 weeks. If you forget to renew and your company is struck from the registry, applying for reinstatement requires much more paperwork, penalty fees, and can take several weeks to resolve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the RJSC renewal the same as filing corporate taxes?
No. Renewing with the Registry of Joint Stock Companies only maintains your corporate name and legal status in Nova Scotia. You must still file your annual T2 Corporate Income Tax Return separately with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
What does it mean if my company status says ‘Default’?
Default status means you have missed your annual renewal deadline and have failed to pay the required fee. While your company still exists, it is not in good standing, and if ignored, the province will eventually revoke your registration.
Can a law firm handle my annual renewals?
Yes. Many Nova Scotia business owners hire a local law firm to act as their recognized agent. The law firm will keep the corporate minute book up to date and automatically process the annual RJSC renewals on the company’s behalf.
How do I change my company’s directors during renewal?
You cannot change directors simply by paying the renewal fee. You must file a separate Notice of Directors form with the RJSC to formally update the public record, which should be done within 14 days of the actual change in your business.
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