How To Register A Business in Québec: A Step-by-Step Guide

Québec offers a unique blend of entrepreneurial energy, cultural richness, and access to both Francophone and global markets. With strong infrastructure, supportive programs for small business owners, and one of Canada’s most diverse economies, it’s a promising place to start or grow a business.

But before you start serving clients or making your first sale, there’s one crucial step: Registering your business. Learning how to register a small business in Quebec or even a corporation gives you the legal foundation to protect your brand, open a business bank account, register for taxes, and build trust with customers, partners, and lenders.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full registration process, including how to register a business in Québec online, how much it costs, how long it takes, and what type of structure is best for your business, whether sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation.

Discover Wise Business: Simplify Your International Finances
Wise makes it easier to manage your business finances. You can manage everything from one app, there are no monthly fees, and international payments use the mid-market rate. It also integrates smoothly with accounting software to keep your operations running efficiently.
Find out more about Wise Business

Table of contents

Why Register Your Business in Québec? Legal Forms: Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Incorporation Sole Proprietorship (Entreprise individuelle) Partnership (Société de personnes) Incorporation (Société par actions) Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in Québec How Much Does It Cost to Register a Business in Québec? How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in Québec Common Mistakes When Registering a Business in Québec Final Thoughts FAQs

Why Register Your Business in Québec?

Registering your business gives it legal status and protects your business name within the province. Here’s why it matters:

• Legal protection: Registration ensures your business is recognized by the provincial government.
• Tax compliance: You’ll be able to collect and remit taxes (such as GST and QST).
• Funding access: Many grants, loans, and investment programs require your business to be registered.
• Hiring employees: You need a registered business to set up payroll and comply with employment standards.
• Brand trust: Customers and partners are more likely to work with a registered business.
• Eligibility for programs: A registered business can access provincial and federal funding, grants, and business support programs.

Most businesses operating in Québec must register with the Registraire des Entreprises du Québec (REQ). Some exceptions apply, such as freelancers operating under their personal name.

Legal Forms: Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Incorporation

Québec businesses can take different legal forms, each with its own features and registration requirements.

Sole Proprietorship (Entreprise individuelle)

This is the simplest and most affordable option for small business owners. You operate the business as an individual and are personally responsible for its debts and obligations.

Pros:

• Easy and low-cost to register
• Full control of business decisions
• Minimal administrative burden

Cons:

• No legal separation between you and the business
• Personal assets at risk in case of debt or legal issues

Best for: Freelancers, independent consultants, and solo entrepreneurs.

Partnership (Société de personnes)

This form is used when two or more individuals (or entities) go into business together. A partnership typically offers shared liability among partners and allows for pooled financial resources.

Pros:

• Shared financial and managerial responsibilities
• Simple to register and operate

Cons:

• Partners share liability for the debts and actions of the business
• Requires a solid partnership agreement

Best for: Businesses started with friends, colleagues, or business partners.

Incorporation (Société par actions)

Incorporation creates a separate legal entity, offering liability protection and more flexible financing options through the issuance of shares.

Pros:

• Limited liability for owners
• Easier to attract investors and raise capital
• Corporate tax rates may be advantageous

Cons:

• Higher registration costs and annual filing requirements
• More complex structure and accounting rules

Best for: Startups seeking growth, businesses with significant risk, or companies planning to raise funds.

Choosing the right structure depends on your business goals, liability comfort, and tax preferences. Sole proprietorships are ideal for freelancers or small service providers, while incorporation suits businesses planning to scale or attract investors.

Tip: Depending on your business model, you can also opt for a non-profit corporation (organisme sans but lucratif) or a cooperative.

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in Québec

Here’s how to register a small business in Québec, whether you’re a first-time entrepreneur or expanding an existing operation.

Step 1: Choose a Business Structure

Decide whether you’ll register as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Each option comes with its own obligations and benefits.

Step 2: Pick a Business Name

Your name must be unique and comply with Québec’s language laws¹. To check for availability, you can use the CIDREQ registry.

If you plan to operate under your own name, you may not need to register (e.g. “Marie Tremblay”), but if you add another word (like “Marie Tremblay Design”), you must register.

Step 3: Register with the Registraire des Entreprises (REQ)

You can register online through Québec’s official portal. To register, you’ll need the following documentation:

• Personal identification (or business info if incorporating)
• Business address
• Description of your business activity
• Any founding documents (for corporations)

You can register a business in Québec either online or by mail. Online is the most efficient and recommended method. Let’s look at how to register a business in Quebec online step by step.

Online Registration

• Go to the Registraire des entreprises
• Use the “Start a business” section
• Follow the prompts and submit the required documents
• Pay the registration fee by credit card

Register by Mail

• Download and complete the paper form
• Include payment (cheque or money order)
• Mail it to the address listed on the form

Step 4: Get a Québec Enterprise Number (NEQ)

Once registered, you’ll receive an NEQ (Numéro d’entreprise du Québec). This number identifies your business in Québec’s legal and tax systems.

Step 5: Register for Taxes

Once you register your business, you’ll likely need to register for taxes. But not everyone has to. If your business:

• Earns more than $30,000 annually²
• Sell taxable goods or services
• Hire employees

Then you’ll need to register for the following:

• GST and QST accounts
• Source deductions (payroll taxes)
• Corporate income tax (if incorporated)

This can be done online through Revenu Québec.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account

With your NEQ and registration documents, you can now open a business bank account.

A business account will help you keep personal and business finances separate. If you plan to send or receive money internationally, Wise Business is a smart alternative to traditional banks.

Step 7: Get Required Permits and Licences

Depending on your industry and location, you may need municipal, provincial, or federal permits. Use Québec’s Permis et licences (permits and licenses) tool to determine which applies.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Business in Québec?

It depends on your business type and the services you use. Here’s a breakdown of government fees (as of 2025):³

Service	Estimated Cost (CAD)
Registering a sole proprietorship	$39
Registering a partnership	$60
Incorporating provincially (Québec)	$101
Non-profit legal entity	$39

Additional costs may include:

• Legal or accounting advice (varies)
• Permits and licenses (vary by industry)

Some businesses opt for third-party services that charge bundled fees for registration, GST setup, and more. Always verify the total cost and included services.

---

Wise Business Could Help Your Company Save on Global Payments

---

How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in Québec

There isn’t an official, guaranteed processing time published by the Québec government for registering a business. However, based on insights from business law firms and user-reported experiences, most registrations, regardless of business structure, are processed within 1 to 5 business days when submitted online through the Registraire des entreprises du Québec (REQ) portal.⁴

Keep in mind that processing times can vary depending on the accuracy of your application and how busy the REQ is. Submitting incomplete or incorrect information may lead to delays. In some cases, it may take longer if your registration involves additional steps such as name approval or tax account setup.

To avoid unnecessary delays, double-check all required documents, ensure consistency across forms, and consider registering online rather than by mail. If your registration is time-sensitive, contacting the REQ directly or working with a service provider may help you get a clearer estimate.

If you need to start business operations quickly, registering online through the portal is your fastest option. Once registered, you can immediately begin invoicing clients and setting up payment systems.

Common Mistakes When Registering a Business in Québec

While registering your business is relatively straightforward, it’s easy to make avoidable errors. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Using a business name that isn’t available or compliant: Always check for name availability and ensure your business name respects Québec’s French language requirements.
• Skipping registration: Even small businesses and freelancers may need to register. If in doubt, consult the REQ website.
• Incorrect or incomplete tax registration: Not registering for GST/QST when required can lead to penalties.
• Forgetting to file your annual declaration: Missing this step can result in fines or business deregistration.
• Not understanding your legal structure: Choosing the wrong structure could increase liability or taxes.
• Failing to check licensing requirements: Every municipality or industry might have specific permits, so don’t overlook them.

Avoid these mistakes by reviewing government guidance, consulting with a legal or tax expert, or using registration services.

Save Time and Money On Overseas Payments With Wise Business

Wise Business can help you save big time on international payments. Wise is not a bank, but a Money Services Business (MSB) provider and a smart alternative to banks. The Wise Business account is designed with international business in mind, and makes it easy to send, hold, and manage business funds in currencies.

Use Wise Business >>

Some key features of Wise Business include:

• Mid-market rate: Get the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden fees on international transfers
• Global Account: Send money to countries and hold multiple currencies, all in one place. You can also get major currency account details for a one-off fee to receive overseas payments like a local
• Business Debit Card: Invite your employees to order a debit card for free, and pre-set their spending limit. Add them to your Business account with controlled access and track their spending in one place.
• Global Account: Send money to countries and hold multiple currencies, all in one place. You can also get major currency account details for a one-off fee to receive overseas payments like a local
• Auto-conversions: Don't like the current currency exchange rate? Set your desired rate, and Wise sends the transfer the moment the rate is met
• Free invoicing tool: Generate and send professional invoices
• No minimum balance requirements or monthly fees: Canada based businesses can open an account for free. Learn more about fees here

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to register a business in Québec sets the groundwork for success. Starting as a sole proprietor or incorporating is a relatively straightforward process when you understand the steps and requirements.

Once your business is registered, you can access financing, hire employees, and set up efficient financial tools like Wise Business to manage international payments at the real exchange rate without hidden fees.

With the right setup, you equip your Québec business to succeed both at home and globally.

---

FAQs

Do I need to register if I’m self-employed?

If you operate under your own first and last name with no additions (e.g., Jane Smith), you may not need to register. But if you use a business name with descriptors like “Jane Smith Consulting,” registration is required.

Can I change my business structure later?

Yes. You can convert a sole proprietorship into a corporation, but it involves new registrations and may have tax implications.

Do I need to register for taxes separately?

Yes. After registering with the REQ, you must register with Revenu Québec for GST/QST, corporate income tax, and payroll accounts (if applicable).

Can I register a business in Québec as a non-resident?

Yes, but additional requirements apply. Non-residents may need to appoint a local agent or provide additional documentation.

What language should I use to register my business?

All registration documents must be in French. This includes your business name, unless exempted.

Do I need to register for GST and QST?

If you earn over $30,000/year, sell taxable goods and services, or wish to hire employees, then you will need to register for GST and QST.

---

Sources:

1. https://educaloi.qc.ca/en/capsules/language-laws-and-doing-business-in-quebec/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. https://www.revenuquebec.ca/en/businesses/consumption-taxes/gsthst-and-qst/registering-for-the-gst-and-qst/
3. https://milesopedia.com/en/small-business/register-business-req/
4. https://www.fasken.com/en/knowledge/doing-business-in-canada/16-establishing-a-business-in-quebec