Start an LLC in British Columbia, Canada- Process, Taxation & Compliance

Starting a Limited Liability Company in British Columbia (BC) can be one of the best decisions for entrepreneurs looking to build a credible, legally protected business in Canada’s most dynamic province. 

British Columbia offers a transparent regulatory framework, a skilled workforce, and strong government support for small and medium-sized enterprises.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about LLC registration in BC — including how to have your name approved, how to incorporate, how to pay taxes, what benefits you can get, and what compliance criteria you need to meet.

What is a Limited Liability Company in British Columbia?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) — often called a corporation in BC — is a legally incorporated business entity that separates personal assets from business liabilities.

Limited liability protection shields owners’ (shareholders’) personal assets from business debts and legal actions.

In British Columbia, LLCs are incorporated under the BC Business Corporations Act (BCA) and registered through the BC Corporate Registry. This structure is suitable for both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors planning to operate in the province.

Why Start an LLC in BC?

British Columbia consistently ranks as one of Canada’s top provinces for starting and operating a business.

Here’s why entrepreneurs prefer LLC registration in BC:

1. Limited Liability and Legal Protection

As the name suggests, forming a Limited Liability Company in BC protects your personal assets (home, savings, etc.) from company debts and lawsuits.

2. Enhanced Credibility

Incorporating signals of professionalism and commitment. Clients and investors often trust incorporated businesses more than unregistered entities or sole proprietorships.

3. Perpetual Existence

Your LLC in British Columbia continues even if ownership changes or a member leaves, ensuring stability and investor confidence.

4. Access to Provincial and Federal Programs

BC offers various grants, innovation funds, and tax credits for incorporated businesses — particularly in technology, sustainability, and clean energy sectors.

5. Strategic Location for Global Business

BC’s proximity to the U.S. West Coast and Asia-Pacific makes it an ideal hub for international trade, logistics, and startups.

How to Start an LLC in BC, Canada?

Follow these steps to successfully complete your LLC registration in British Columbia:

1. Choose and Reserve a Business Name

Select a distinctive and descriptive name that meets the BC naming guidelines.

• Use the BC Corporate Online Name Request System (NR) to check availability.
• A name reservation is valid for 56 days once approved.

2. Prepare and File Articles of Incorporation

Prepare the Articles of Incorporation, which cover the following:

• Company name and registered office address
• Class and number of shares
• Names and addresses of initial directors

File these documents online via the BC Corporate Registry Portal

Pay the incorporation filing fee (approx. CAD 350 online).

3. Obtain a Business Number (BN) from CRA

• Once your LLC is incorporated, register for a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
• This number is utilised for taxation, payroll, and import/export purposes.

If your annual revenue exceeds CAD 30,000, you must also register for:

Goods and Services Tax (GST), or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (based on the business structure and nature of goods/services).

Note: British Columbia currently applies 5% GST and a 7% Provincial Sales Tax (PST). The combined effective tax rate for most goods and services is 12%.

4. Register for Provincial Taxes and Licenses

Depending on your business activities:

• Register for PST with the BC Ministry of Finance.
• Apply for specific business licenses or permits from your local municipality (e.g., Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby).

5. Set Up a Registered Office and Agent in BC

Every LLC in BC needs to have:

• A registered office address within the province.
• A registered agent (an individual or firm residing in BC) authorized to receive legal documents and government notices.

6. Open a Business Bank Account

Opening a separate business account for your LLC in British Columbia ensures proper bookkeeping, tax filing, and financial transparency — all crucial for maintaining limited liability protection.

Documents Required for LLC Registration in British Columbia

Before you register, gather the following:

• Approved Name Request (NR Number)
• Articles of Incorporation
• Incorporation Agreement (signed by the incorporators)
• Notice of Registered Office
• Notice of Directors
• Government Filing Fee (CAD 350)

Taxation for LLCs in British Columbia (Updated 2025)

Here’s an overview of the tax system applicable to LLCs in BC:

Compliance & Annual Requirements for LLCs in British Columbia

After registration, your LLC in BC must:

• Submit an Annual Report with the BC Corporate Registry (fee: CAD 43).
• Maintain proper corporate records (meeting minutes, resolutions).
• Renew business licenses as required.
• File annual corporate tax returns with CRA and BC Ministry of Finance.

Conclusion

Setting up a Limited Liability Company in British Columbia offers entrepreneurs an excellent mix of legal protection, tax benefits, and global access. With a transparent incorporation process and a stable economy, LLC registration in BC remains one of the best options for business growth in Canada.

If you’re ready to begin your LLC registration in British Columbia, our experts can guide you through every step — from name approval to CRA registration.

Contact us today to establish your LLC and start operating confidently in Canada’s most business-friendly province.