How to Get NEQ number in Quebec? | Complete Guide

Introduction

If you’re thinking of starting a business in Quebec, there’s a short acronym you need to familiarize yourself with is the NEQ. It stands for Numéro d’entreprise du Québec, or in English, the Québec Enterprise Number.

This isn’t just a formality—getting your NEQ is like receiving your business’s official stamp of approval from the province. Without it, your business won’t legally exist in Quebec’s public enterprise register, and you’ll be left out of essential services like tax registration, licensing, and more.

In this guide, we’ll explain all you need to know about the NEQ number in Quebec, including what it is, who needs it, how to obtain it, and why it is important. Whether you’re a first-time founder or expanding your operations into Quebec, this article is your go-to manual.

What is a Québec Enterprise Number (NEQ)?

The Québec Enterprise Number (NEQ) is a unique 10-digit identification number assigned to a business or organization once it is registered with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec. Think of it as Quebec’s version of a business identification number—it officially recognizes your business within the provincial system.

Just like a tax ID or Social Security Number for individuals, your NEQ serves as the primary identifier for your business when dealing with government bodies, financial institutions, and even private entities.

Every NEQ is linked directly to the business’s public registration file. Anyone can look up your NEQ to verify your company’s status, legal form, and activities, making it a key element of business transparency in Quebec.

Who Can Get an NEQ in Quebec?

Almost any business or organization planning to operate in Quebec can and should apply for an NEQ. Here’s a breakdown:

• Individuals (Sole Proprietorships): You can register under your personal name or a business name. Once registered, you’ll receive your NEQ.
• Partnerships (General and Limited): Partnerships that conduct commercial activities must register and get an NEQ.
• Corporations: Both federal and provincial corporations need to register and get an NEQ to do business in Quebec.
• Non-Profits and Associations: Even non-profit entities operating in Quebec must register for an NEQ to gain legal status.
• Foreign Entities: Yes, even foreign companies looking to expand into Quebec must apply for an NEQ once they establish a local presence.

Who Needs an NEQ in Quebec?

Here’s the short version: if you’re doing business in Quebec and need to be officially recognized, you need an NEQ.

You must get an NEQ if:

• You are incorporating a business in Quebec.
• You’re a federally incorporated company operating in Quebec.
• You want to open a corporate bank account in Canada.
• You need to apply for tax numbers (TPS/TVQ).
• You’re signing contracts with government entities.
• You want to be listed in the public enterprise register.

There are some exceptions (e.g., very small businesses with minimal activity), but in most cases, it’s required to stay compliant.

Uses of an NEQ Number in Quebec

Wondering what you’ll actually use the NEQ for once you’ve got it? Here’s a closer look:

1. Government Interactions

You’ll need it to register for taxes, apply for licenses, and file annual declarations.

2. Invoicing and Contracts

Many B2B clients, especially large corporations and institutions, request NEQ verification before working with vendors.

3. Funding and Tenders

Public and private grants, tenders, and investor documentation often require your NEQ number for validation.

4. Transparency

Your NEQ connects to a publicly accessible file about your business, which boosts your legitimacy and helps build trust with customers and partners.

Benefits of a Quebec Enterprise Number (NEQ)

Getting your NEQ is more than a checkbox. Here’s why it’s essential for growth-focused entrepreneurs:

1. Legitimacy & Legal Recognition

Without an NEQ, your business doesn’t officially exist in the eyes of the provincial government. With it, you’re a legally recognized entity.

2. Trust & Transparency

Clients, investors, and institutions can verify your registration and status online using your NEQ.

3. Government Services Access

You’ll need an NEQ to access many public services—from tax registration to provincial programs.

4. Simplified Compliance

An NEQ helps you manage obligations like annual updates, tax submissions, and other corporate responsibilities.

5. Expansion Ready

As your business grows, you’ll need the NEQ to hire employees, apply for zoning permits, or even bid on government contracts.

How to Get an NEQ Number in Quebec?

The process to get NEQ number Quebec is discussed below:

Step 1: Decide Your Legal Form

Are you a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a corporation? This determines the documents you’ll need.

Step 2: Register with the Registraire des entreprises

• Go to the official website: Registraire des entreprises du Québec (REQ)
• You can complete the registration entirely online. Select the “Start a Business” option and follow the prompts.

Step 3: Complete and Submit the Form

You’ll enter your business name, address, structure, activity description, and identification of owners or administrators.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

Fees vary depending on your legal structure (details below).

Step 5: Receive Your NEQ

Once approved, you’ll be assigned a 10-digit NEQ. This number becomes your company’s official ID in Quebec.

NEQ Application Fees in Quebec

The fees for obtaining an NEQ in Quebec depend on your business structure:

• Sole Proprietorship / Association / Cooperative: $37 CAD
• General or Limited Partnership: $56 CAD
• Corporation (Incorporation under QBCA): $356 CAD

Conclusion

The NEQ number in Quebec is a vital part of doing business in the province. It’s not just a formality—it’s your business’s unique legal ID that opens doors to banking, tax registration, compliance, and growth opportunities.

Whether you’re launching a small e-commerce business or bringing an international firm to Montreal, securing your Québec Enterprise Number is the first step toward operating legally and successfully. Don’t overlook it—embrace it.

If you need expert help navigating the process or want to register your business in Quebec quickly and correctly, reach out to OnDemand International. We simplify registrations, filings, and expansion—so you can focus on building your dream business.